[Laparoscopic Janeway gastrostomy: an advantageous solution for self-sufficient enteral feeding].

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic gastrostomy according to Janeway (LGJ) is an alternative to percutaneous gastrostomy techniques.

METHODS

A series of 10 LGJ is reported. The laparoscopic technique involves an isoperistaltic tube of 6-7 cm of length and 10-12 mm of diameter is created by 2 applications of linear stapling and cutting device. The tube is led out, opened and fixed to the fascial and cutaneous planes and a Foley catheter is inserted.

RESULTS

Mean operation time was 35 minutes. There was no complication. The LGJ was indicated in 9 patients with tumour of the pharynx and 1 patient with encephalopathy.

CONCLUSION

The main drawback of the LGJ is the need of general anaesthesia. The main advantage is the creation by minimal invasive surgery of a permanent gastrostomy equipped with a removable catheter easily changeable by non specialized health professionals, and even by the patient himself.