An easier method for percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy tube placement

Abstract

Background: The current procedures for percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (PEG-J) tube placement require fluoroscopy and are time consuming. We describe a new, simple method.

Methods: Ten patients had a PEG-J tube placed by the new method. After placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube using standard technique, the PEG tube was pushed up to the pylorus to make it easier to place the jejunal tube into the duodenum without looping in the stomach. Fluoroscopy was not used. The position of the tube was confirmed by a plain x-ray film of the abdomen.

Results: The mean time required for PEG placement and jejunal tube placement was 9.0 and 8.2 minutes, respectively. In all patients the tip of the jejunal tube was at the ligament of Treitz. In one patient the jejunal tube formed a loop in the duodenum, but this was reduced by spontaneous forward migration. In another patient, the tube migrated back into the stomach after 1 week.

Conclusion: The method described allows easier PEG-J placement without fluoroscopy.