A new use for catheter duodenostomy. Postoperative enteric dimentation.

A planned duodenal tube fistula was used in conjunction with partial gastrectomy to avoid closure of a difficult duodenal stump. Because the patient refused adequate oral feedings for various reasons, despite a functional and patent intestinal tract, the duodenostomy tude was used for alimentation. Removal of such tubes should be delayed in such patients until their oral intake is satisfactory.