[Computer tomography-guided gastrostomy, jejunostomy and gastrojejunostomy. A reliable non-surgical method also for contraindications and failure of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy].

OBJECTIVE

To analyse retrospectively the results of CT (computed tomography)-guided gastrostomy or gastroenterostomy where an endoscopic procedure was not possible or had failed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between August 1993 and March 1997, CT-guided gastrostomy (n = 50) or gastroenterostomy (n = 8) was performed in 58 patients (mean age 56 +/- 6 years; 51 males, 7 females). An endoscopic or fluoroscopic method had been contraindicated in 52 and had failed in 6 patients.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in all patients. Three patients needed intravenous sedation. There were no procedure related complications requiring treatment. Three patients had a mild infection at the site of the skin puncture.

CONCLUSION

CT-guided gastrostomy or gastroenterostomy is a safe and simple procedure which provides a minimally invasive alternative also in patients with contraindications to the established percutaneous method.