Eur J Surg 2001-11-01
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy for nutrition in patients with oesophageal cancer.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the technical aspects and risks of using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in the treatment of patients with oesophageal cancer.
DESIGN
Retrospective study.
SETTING
Teaching hospital, Sweden.
SUBJECTS
229 consecutive patients who presented with oesophageal cancer between January 1990 and the end of December 1999.
INTERVENTION
Insertion of a PEG after diagnosis and before treatment.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Morbidity and mortality.
RESULTS
PEGs were successfully inserted in 222/229 (97%), and the tumour required dilatation in 103 (45%). There was 1 oesophageal perforation and 1 tear of the stomach wall, both of which resulted in death (mortality 0.9%). In 1 operated patient the right gastroepiploic artery was injured by the PEG, but this did not prevent the stomach being used successfully as the oesophageal substitute. PEGs were removed because of leaks in 2 patients. There was 1 possible implantation metastasis.
CONCLUSION
PEG is a safe and a well tolerated way of ensuring enteral nutrition in patients with oesophageal cancer. The risk of the PEG complicating any later operation is minimal.
Related Questions
Is there a preferred method and should any of the following be avoided: esophageal stent, nasogastric tube, PEG, J-tube, or TPN?
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