Nutrition rehabilitation-related complications in primary mitochondrial disorders

Primary mitochondrial disorders (PMDs) comprise a group of hundreds of individual genetic diseases affecting mitochondrial function, including oxidative phosphorylation and energy production. The estimated prevalence of these disorders ranges from 2.9 to 20 cases per 100,000. PMDs are commonly associated with malnutrition and growth failure. There is a paucity of literature regarding nutrition assessment and long-term data in the PMD population. We present three patients with various PMDs who presented complications related to malnutrition: (1) a 16-year-old male with Kearns-Sayre syndrome developed type 2 insulin-requiring diabetes mellitus after the initiation of high-calorie nutrition rehabilitation via gastrostomy tube (G-tube); (2) an 11-year-old female with myoclonic epilepsy associated with ragged red fibers developed diarrhea with metabolic decompensation and profound neurological and respiratory deterioration during nutrition rehabilitation after surgical G-tube placement; and (3) a 19-year-old male with a WARS2-associated PMD manifesting with developmental delay and severe parkinsonism presented complications related to poor wound healing after gastrojejunostomy tube placement. The last patient required prolonged hospitalization in the intensive care unit. Clinicians should be vigilant in monitoring these possible complications, as no standards of care exist for the initiation of enteral nutrition for this unique population.

Patient selection for pediatric gastrostomy tubes: Are we placing tubes that are not being used?

INTRODUCTION

Identifying pediatric patients who may benefit from gastrostomy tube (GT) placement can be challenging. We hypothesized that many GTs would no longer be in use after 6 months.

METHODS

Inpatient GT placements in patients < 18 years old at a tertiary children's hospital from 9/2014 to 2/2020 were included. The primary outcome was GT use <6 months (short-term). Secondary outcomes included age at placement, indication for GT, and operations for GT-related issues.

RESULTS

Fifteen percent (22/142) of GTs were used for <6 months post-operatively. The median duration of short-term GT use was 1.6 months (IQR 0.9-3.4 months). Short-term GTs were more likely to be placed in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) (18.2% vs. 4.2%, p = 0.03) and adolescents (≥12 years old, 22.7% vs. 4.0%, p = 0.005). Gastrocutaneous fistula closure was required in 33.3% of short-term patients who had their GTs removed (n = 6/18), with median total hospital charges of $29,989 per patient.

CONCLUSION

Fifteen percent of pediatric GTs placed as inpatients were used for <6 months, more commonly among adolescents and in TBI patients. One-third of patients with short-term GTs required gastrocutaneous fistula closure. Adolescents and TBI patients may benefit from consideration of short-term nasogastric tube (NGT) feeds rather than surgical GT placement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Nutritional and prognostic significance of abdominal wall thickness measured during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in older individuals with dysphagia

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The significance of abdominal wall thickness (AWT) for nutritional assessment remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional and prognostic significance of AWT measured during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in older patients with dysphagia.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study enrolled older adults with dysphagia who underwent PEG for enteral nutrition using the introducer technique between February 2010 and January 2019. We examined the association between AWT measured during PEG and nutritional status items, including body mass index (BMI), serum albumin (Alb), total lymphocyte count (TLC), total cholesterol (TC), hemoglobin (Hb), and C-reactive protein (CRP). The shaft length of the PEG tube inserted, which is an approximation value of the AWT, was used for statistical analysis. Patients were divided into three groups: low-AWT group (shaft length ≤2.5 cm), medium-AWT group (shaft length 3.0-3.5 cm), and high-AWT group (shaft length ≥4.0 cm). We performed the Kruskal-Wallis test and multiple linear regression analysis with multiple imputation. We performed survival analysis using the Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 520 patients were identified: 115, 258, and 147 patients in the low-AWT, medium-AWT, and high-AWT groups, respectively. Higher AWT was significantly associated with higher BMI, Alb, TLC, TC, Hb, and lower CRP levels. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that BMI and TLC were significant predictors of AWT (BMI: coefficient 1.16E-01, 95% confidence interval [CI], 9.77E-02-1.33E-01, P < 0.001; TLC: coefficient 1.18E-04, 95% CI, 2.72E-05-2.09E-04, P = 0.011). The median survival time was the longest in the high-AWT group (low-AWT, 359 days; medium-AWT, 851 days; high-AWT, 1662 days; P < 0.001). The hazard ratio for the high-AWT group relative to the medium-AWT group was 0.59 (95% CI, 0.41-0.85, P = 0.004), and that relative to the low-AWT group was 0.34 (95% CI, 0.24-0.51, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher AWT was associated with better nutritional status and survival. AWT may help assess nutritional status and predict survival in older dysphagic patients with PEG.

Effect of the type of specialized nutrition support on the course of the patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Interhospital registry SCLEDyN

INTRODUCTION

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease in which specialized nutritional support is essential. The objectives of our study were to describe nutritional support at the beginning of follow-up and its impact on anthropometry and survival.

METHODS

An interhospital registry was created for the hospitals of Castilla-León through a web platform designed for this purpose. An anamnesis was carried out on the evolution and nutritional history of the disease; and classical anthropometry was determined. The prescribed nutritional treatment was recorded. The parameters were measured at the beginning, at six and twelve months of nutritional follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 93 patients [49 (52.7%) spinal; 44 (47.3%) bulbar)] were analyzed. The nutritional support route at the beginning was oral diet in 36 (38.7%) patients; oral nutritional supplementation (SON) in 46 (49.5%) patients; and in 11 (11.8%) patients percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). A decrease in the body mass index (BMI) was observed between the first and second visit [Start: 24.18 (3.29) kg/m²; 6 months: 23.69 (4.12) kg/m²; P < .05]. Less weight loss was observed at 6 months compared to the start of nutritional follow-up [Start: 8.09 (8.72)%; 6 months: 1.4 (6.29)%; P < .01]. 36 (38.7%) patients died but with no differences according to when nutritional support was started. Survival from the onset of symptoms was higher in the group of patients with artificial nutrition, although without reaching statistical significance [Oral: 28 (20.25) months; SON: 30 (16.75-48.25) months; PEG: 39 (27-52) months; P = .90].

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with ALS present a severe deterioration in nutritional status before the start of nutritional support. After the nutritional intervention, a slowdown in weight loss and nutritional deterioration was observed.

Percutaneous ultrasound gastrostomy (PUG): first prospective clinical trial

GRAPHICAL ABSTARCT

PURPOSE: To report the results of the first-in-human trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of the percutaneous ultrasound gastrostomy (PUG) technique.

METHODS

A prospective, industry-sponsored single-arm clinical trial of PUG insertion was performed in 25 adult patients under investigational device exemption (mean age 64 ± 15 years, 92% men, 80% inpatients, mean BMI 24.5 ± 2.7 kg/m²). A propensity score-matched retrospective cohort of 25 patients who received percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy (PRG) was generated as an institutional control (mean age 66 ± 14 years, 92% men, 80% inpatients, mean BMI 24.0 ± 2.7 kg/m²). Primary outcomes included successful insertion and 30-day procedure-related adverse events (AE's). Secondary outcomes included procedural duration, sedation requirements, and hospital length of stay.

RESULTS

All PUG procedures were successful, including 3/25 [12%] performed bedside within the ICU. There was no significant difference between PUG and PRG in rates of mild AE's (3/25 [12%] for PUG and 7/25 [28%] for PRG, p = 0.16) or moderate AE's (1/25 [4%] for PUG and 0/25 for PRG, p = 0.31). There were no severe AE's or 30-day procedure-related mortality in either group. Procedural room time was longer for PUG (56.5 ± 14.1 min) than PRG (39.3 ± 15.0 min, p < 0.001). PUG procedure time was significantly shorter after a procedural enhancement, the incorporation of a Gauss meter to facilitate successful magnetic gastropexy. Length of stay for outpatients did not significantly differ (2.4 ± 0.5 days for PUG and 2.6 ± 1.0 days for PRG, p = 0.70).

CONCLUSION

PUG appears effective with a safety profile similar to PRG. Bedside point-of-care gastrostomy tube insertion using the PUG technique shows promise.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03575754.

Enteral administration of alectinib for ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer in an elderly patient: A case report

RATIONALE

Alectinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for use as first-line metastatic therapy for patients with anaplastic lymphoma kinase-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer. Certain medical conditions related to the tumor lesions may not allow oral administration of TKIs.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We hereby report the case of a 90-year-old patient with anaplasic lymphoma kinase-rearranged lung cancer with severely impaired general condition and swallowing disorders.

DIAGNOSIS

A thoracic computerized tomography (CT)-scan confirmed the presence of a mediastinal tumor lesion explaining the swallowing disorders secondary to recurrent paralysis.

INTERVENTIONS

As no oral administration was feasible, alectinib was administered by percutaneous gastrostomy.

OUTCOMES

The patient had few side-effects. He presented a major clinical and radiological response. After 2 months of treatment with alectinib, his mini-mental state examination had increased from 8/30 to 23/30. He had a 60% reduction in targeted pulmonary, bone and node lesions according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 (RECIST 1.1). After 6 months of treatment, the patient's performance status had evolved from 3 to 1. This improvement in general condition made it possible to remove the feeding tube.

LESSONS

In cases of lung cancer with oncogenic addiction, enteral administration of TKIs should be considered for elderly patients with an impaired general condition.

Evaluation of the Integrated Pulmonary Index® during non-anesthesiologist sedation for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

Standard monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation during endoscopy is recommended by current guidelines on procedural sedation. A number of studies indicated a reduction of hypoxic (art. oxygenation < 90% for > 15 s) and severe hypoxic events (art. oxygenation < 85%) by additional use of capnography. Therefore, U.S. and the European guidelines comment that additional capnography monitoring can be considered in long or deep sedation. Integrated Pulmonary Index® (IPI) is an algorithm-based monitoring parameter that combines oxygenation measured by pulse oximetry (art. oxygenation, heart rate) and ventilation measured by capnography (respiratory rate, apnea > 10 s, partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide [PetCO2]). The aim of this paper was to analyze the value of IPI as parameter to monitor the respiratory status in patients receiving propofol sedation during PEG-procedure. Patients reporting for PEG-placement under sedation were randomized 1:1 in either standard monitoring group (SM) or capnography monitoring group including IPI (IM). Heart rate, blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation were monitored in SM. In IM additional monitoring was performed measuring PetCO2, respiratory rate and IPI. Capnography and IPI values were recorded for all patients but were only visible to the endoscopic team for the IM-group. IPI values range between 1 and 10 (10 = normal; 8-9 = within normal range; 7 = close to normal range, requires attention; 5-6 = requires attention and may require intervention; 3-4 = requires intervention; 1-2 requires immediate intervention). Results on capnography versus standard monitoring of the same study population was published previously. A total of 147 patients (74 in SM and 73 in IM) were included in the present study. Hypoxic events occurred in 62 patients (42%) and severe hypoxic events in 44 patients (29%), respectively. Baseline characteristics were equally distributed in both groups. IPI = 1, IPI < 7 as well as the parameters PetCO2 = 0 mmHg and apnea > 10 s had a high sensitivity for hypoxic and severe hypoxic events, respectively (IPI = 1: 81%/81% [hypoxic/severe hypoxic event], IPI < 7: 82%/88%, PetCO2: 69%/68%, apnea > 10 s: 84%/84%). All four parameters had a low specificity for both hypoxic and severe hypoxic events (IPI = 1: 13%/12%, IPI < 7: 7%/7%, PetCO2: 29%/27%, apnea > 10 s: 7%/7%). In multivariate analysis, only SM and PetCO2 = 0 mmHg were independent risk factors for hypoxia. IPI (IPI = 1 and IPI < 7) as well as the individual parameters PetCO2 = 0 mmHg and apnea > 10 s allow a fast and convenient conclusion on patients' respiratory status in a morbid patient population. Sensitivity is good for most parameters, but specificity is poor. In conclusion, IPI can be a useful metric to assess respiratory status during propofol-sedation in PEG-placement. However, IPI was not superior to PetCO2 and apnea > 10 s.

Clinician's attitude to enteral nutrition with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: a survey in China

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is recommended for long-term enteral nutrition. However, long-term nasogastric (NGT) feeding is still commonplace in China. We surveyed Chinese clinicians' opinions toward PEG feeding in order to identify the potential barriers to acceptancy of PEG feeding.

METHODS

A self-reported questionnaire was developed and distributed to 600 doctors. Five-point Likert scales were used for most responses.

RESULTS

Of 525 respondents, the mainly nutritional support method was NGT while PEG was less used. Doctors working in the tertiary class A hospitals and radiotherapy department were more likely to choose PEG feeding (p = 0.000). Overall, 241 (46%) participants did not know PEG and 284 (54%) have different understanding degree of PEG. Age (p = 0.002), working life (p = 0.044) and professionalism (p = 0.005) were significantly related to the understanding of PEG. Levels of agreement was high (score of 3.47) for using PEG in patients with prolonged stroke-associated dysphagia. There was high agreement level in the statement that PEG was unnecessary when NGT could sustain the basic needs of patients, though better outcome can be predicted with PEG feeding. The highest scoring factor (score of 3.91) that influenced clinicians' choice of PEG was resistance from patients and families and the second one was the poor cooperation among departments (score of 3.80).

CONCLUSIONS

Doctors' insufficient knowledge of PEG feeding, resistance from patients and families, poor cooperation among departments, all these factors leading physicians to prefer more conservative treatment to avoid disputes rather than better ones.

Knowledge Levels and Practices About the Enteral Nutritional Practices of Informal Caregivers Caring for Patients Fed Through a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube: A Descriptive Observational Study

This research aimed to evaluate informal caregivers' knowledge of and practices with enteral nutrition in caring for patients fed through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube. Knowledge levels of caregivers about nutritional practices and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube care practices for patients fed enterally are important to prevent possible complications associated with the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube in the early period. The research sample for this descriptive observational study consisted of 126 individuals caring for patients fed through a gastrostomy tube. Knowledge and practices of caregivers were evaluated using a knowledge survey and a practice survey. The knowledge (18.90 ± 3.13; range = 0-24) and practice scores (13.41 ± 1.45; range = 0-15) of the caregivers about tube feeding were above the mean. Caregiver confusion was noted around practical aspects of care such as tube care verification of tube position, and care of the insertion site. Elderly caregivers and those with a low education level need more support about enteral nutrition when caring for patients fed through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube. It is recommended that the nutrition nurse and other health team members provide more regular training to informal caregivers of patients fed with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes.

Safety and efficacy of percutaneous transabdominal and transesophageal decompression gastric catheters for palliation of malignant bowel obstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and primary technical success rate of gastric decompression via percutaneous transabdominal gastrostomy (PTAG) or percutaneous transesophageal gastric (PTEG) catheter placement for management of malignant bowel obstruction (MBO). A secondary purpose was to evaluate the safety and success rate for PTAG catheter placement in patients with both MBO and ascites.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective review of 385 patients who underwent attempted decompression gastric catheter placement from March 2013 to August 2018 was performed. Medical records and imaging studies were reviewed. A subgroup of patients with concomitant MBO and ascites were identified. The primary outcome measures were procedural technical success and procedural complications.

RESULTS

394 decompression gastrostomy catheters were attempted from 2013 to 2018, n = 353 PTAG and n = 41 PTEG. The success rate was 95.5% (n = 337 of 353) for PTAG and 97.6% (n = 40 of 41) for PTEG. There were 63 total complications involving 47 (13.9%) patients following PTAG and 13 total complications involving 9 (22.5%) patients following PTEG, P = 0.16. For the subgroup of patients with MBO and ascites, the success rate was 94.8% (n = 182 of 192 patients), and there were 20 complications involving 17 (12.9%) of 132 patients.

CONCLUSION

Gastric decompression for patients with MBO via PTAG or PTEG catheter placement is associated with high success rates and low complications.

Enteral tube feeding for people with severe dementia

BACKGROUND

The balance of benefits and harms associated with enteral tube feeding for people with severe dementia is not clear. An increasing number of guidelines highlight the lack of evidenced benefit and potential risks of enteral tube feeding. In some areas of the world, the use of enteral tube feeding is decreasing, and in other areas it is increasing.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of enteral tube feeding for people with severe dementia who develop problems with eating and swallowing or who have reduced food and fluid intake.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched ALOIS, the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's register, MEDLINE, Embase, four other databases and two trials registers on 14 April 2021.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), or controlled non-randomised studies. Our population of interest was adults of any age with a diagnosis of primary degenerative dementia of any cause, with severe cognitive and functional impairment, and poor nutritional intake. Eligible studies evaluated the effectiveness and complications of enteral tube feeding via a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube, or via jejunal post-pyloric feeding, in comparison with standard care or enhanced standard care, such as an intervention to promote oral intake. Our primary outcomes were survival time, quality of life, and pressure ulcers.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Three review authors screened citations and two review authors assessed full texts of potentially eligible studies against inclusion criteria. One review author extracted data, which were then checked independently by a second review author. We used the 'Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Interventions' (ROBINS-I) tool to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Risk of confounding was assessed against a pre-agreed list of key potential confounding variables. Our primary outcomes were survival time, quality of life, and pressure ulcers. Results were not suitable for meta-analysis, so we presented them narratively. We presented results separately for studies of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding, nasogastric tube feeding and studies using mixed or unspecified enteral tube feeding methods. We used GRADE methods to assess the overall certainty of the evidence related to each outcome for each study.

MAIN RESULTS

We found no eligible RCTs. We included fourteen controlled, non-randomised studies. All the included studies compared outcomes between groups of people who had been assigned to enteral tube feeding or oral feeding by prior decision of a healthcare professional. Some studies controlled for a range of confounding factors, but there were high or very high risks of bias due to confounding in all studies, and high or critical risks of selection bias in some studies. Four studies with 36,816 participants assessed the effect of PEG feeding on survival time. None found any evidence of effects on survival time (low-certainty evidence). Three of four studies using mixed or unspecified enteral tube feeding methods in 310 participants (227 enteral tube feeding, 83 no enteral tube feeding) found them to be associated with longer survival time. The fourth study (1386 participants: 135 enteral tube feeding, 1251 no enteral tube feeding) found no evidence of an effect. The certainty of this body of evidence is very low. One study of PEG feeding (4421 participants: 1585 PEG, 2836 no enteral tube feeding) found PEG feeding increased the risk of pressure ulcers (moderate-certainty evidence). Two of three studies reported an increase in the number of pressure ulcers in those receiving mixed or unspecified enteral tube feeding (234 participants: 88 enteral tube feeding, 146 no enteral tube feeding). The third study found no effect (very-low certainty evidence).  Two studies of nasogastric tube feeding did not report data on survival time or pressure ulcers. None of the included studies assessed quality of life. Only one study, using mixed methods of enteral tube feeding, reported on pain and comfort, finding no difference between groups. In the same study, a higher proportion of carers reported very heavy burden in the enteral tube feeding group compared to no enteral tube feeding. Two studies assessed the effect of nasogastric tube feeding on mortality (236 participants: 144 nasogastric group, 92 no enteral tube feeding). One study of 67 participants (14 nasogastric, 53 no enteral tube feeding) found nasogastric feeding was associated with increased mortality risk. The second study found no difference in mortality between groups. The certainty of this evidence is very low. Results on mortality for those using PEG or mixed methods of enteral tube feeding were mixed and the certainty of evidence was very low. There was some evidence from two studies for enteral tube feeding improving nutritional parameters, but this was very low-certainty evidence. Five studies reported a variety of harm-related outcomes with inconsistent results. The balance of evidence suggested increased risk of pneumonia with enteral tube feeding. None of the included studies assessed behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence that tube feeding improves survival; improves quality of life; reduces pain; reduces mortality; decreases behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia; leads to better nourishment; improves family or carer outcomes such as depression, anxiety, carer burden, or satisfaction with care; and no indication of harm. We found some evidence that there is a clinically significant risk of pressure ulcers from enteral tube feeding. Future research should focus on better reporting and matching of control and intervention groups, and clearly defined interventions, measuring all the outcomes referred to here.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in children: A single center experience in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the demographic data and complications in children who had undergone percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) over 9 years period.

METHODS

The demographic data, complications, length of hospital admission related to PEG insertion and follow-up findings of 39 patients who had undergone percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy using the standard pull-through technique between 2011 and 2020 were examined. The study took place at the Gastroenterology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia RESULTS: The most common indications of feeding with a gastrostomy tube include neurological diseases (n=30, 76.9%), followed by metabolic disorders (n=3, 7.69%), chronic diarrhea (n=2, 5.1%), chronic kidney diseases (n=2, 5.1%), cystic fibrosis (n=1, 2.56%), feeding aversion fibrosis (n=1, 2.56%). Out of the 39 patients, 20 (51%) did not have any complications. However, minor complication are expected. Most common complications included local infection (n=14, 35.89%) followed by granulation tissue (n=6, 15.38%), "buried bumper syndrome" developed in one.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube is the desirable method for patients who are unable to feed orally, feeding is not adequate for demands, has special feeding requirements, or swallowing dysfunction. The technique has become more widespread because of its simplicity, safety, and low cost. Major complications are rare. The procedure is safe and effective and could be carried out by pediatric gastroenterologists after training.

Radiofrequency ablation of hyperplasia at an uncovered portion of a partially covered metal stent in endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy (with video)

Highlight Endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy with a partially covered metal stent has a potential risk of stent occlusion due to hyperplasia at an uncovered portion of the stent. Matsubara and colleagues report that radiofrequency ablation of hyperplasia with additional placement of an uncovered metal stent is useful for preventing recurrent stent occlusion.

Parental Perspectives on Family Mealtimes Related to Gastrostomy Tube Feeding in Children

Built on the important functions daily routines serve families and child health, this study aimed to explore parents' descriptions of mealtimes and food-related challenges when living with a child using a gastrostomy feeding tube. The study was informed by ecocultural theory and based on in-depth interviews combined with stimulated recall. The interviews of 10 parents were inductively analyzed by means of qualitative content analysis. Four main categories comprised the parents' descriptions: "One situation, different functions," "On the child's terms," "Doing something to me," and "An unpredictable pattern," with one overarching theme. The analyses showed that the parents strived to establish mealtimes in line with their cultural context, although they struggled to reach a point of satisfaction. The study highlights the importance of health care professionals to address the medical aspects of caring for a child with a G-tube, but also the potential psychological and social consequences for ordinary family life.

USING THE METHOD OF PANCREATOGASTROSTOMY AT THE STAGE OF RECONSTRUCTION IN PANCREATODUODENECTOMY

The goal of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of pancreatogastrostomy at the stage of reconstruction by assessing its technical aspects and analysis of the frequency of postoperative complications. The article represents results of the study held with a total of 35 pancreatoduodenectomies performed, followed by reconstruction pancreatogastrostomy. The average patients age was 53.2 years. Men - 13, women - 22. The study non-inclusion criterion was pancreatoduodenectomy with vascular reconstruction. The most common symptom was obstruction jaundice, observed in 29 (82.8%) patients. In 9 (25.7%) cases diabetes mellitus was diagnosed. Eleven (68.7%) patients underwent preoperative endobiliary stenting, five (31.3%) - percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. The pancreatoduodenectomy was performed with bilirubinemia not exceeding 100 mcM /l. The most common determined pathology was the pancreatic head carcinoma- 14 (40.2%) cases and the ampulla of Vater carcinoma - 12 (34.2%). The other pathologies were as follows: distal cholangiocarcinoma- 5 (14.3), duodenal cancer - 3 (8.5%) and chronic fibrous-degenerative pancreatitis -1 (2.8%). Biochemical leakage was registered in 6 cases (17.1%), the B grade pancreatic fistula - in 3 cases (8.5%), C grade - in 1 case (2.8%). The postoperative gastroparesis was observed in 5 (14.2%) patients: grade А-3 cases, grade В-2 cases, grade С no cases. The pancreatic stump hemorrhage into the gastric lumen was registered in 4 patients (11.4%). No patient required for relaparotomy, the hemorrhage was arrested by endoscopic argon-plasma coagulation (ERBE 200 D) and conservative treatment. The pancreatogastrostomy method can be used irrelevant of the pancreas parenchyma structure and the main pancreatic duct diameter.

In Home Caregivers' Experiences With Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Patients: A Qualitative Review

In home caregivers of patients with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy face physical, social, and psychological problems. The results of qualitative studies play a key role in determining in home caregivers' percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy-related problems, attitudes, views, and experiences. The aim of this review was to survey the literature to assess the problems faced by in home caregivers of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy patients and identify solutions to these problems. PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were screened using the key words qualitative research, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, enteral nutrition, and mixed method for relevant articles published between 1945 and November 2019. The literature search yielded 446 scholarly articles. Their titles and abstracts were screened for possible inclusion in this review. Fifteen articles that met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The quality of the included qualitative articles were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Research Checklist, whereas mixed-methods articles were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Five major themes were developed: percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube problems, training requirement, health support system, effect on life, and tube necessity. We believe that determining caregivers' physical and psychosocial problems around managing patients' percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes and developing support systems can help solve those problems and improve both patients' and caregivers' quality of life.

Elbasvir/grazoprevir administered for 12 weeks via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube achieves sustained virologic response: A case report and a review of the literature

Enteral tubes are necessary for certain patients; however, medication absorption can be affected by this route of administration potentially resulting in decreased efficacy. All first-line treatments for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection are only available as tablets and may have decreased absorption if administered via an enteral tube. This report describes the first case of a pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment-experienced patient who successfully achieved HCV cure after 12 weeks of elbasvir/grazoprevir administered via percutaneous gastrostomy tube. We further review the available pharmacokinetic and clinical literature regarding administration via enteral feeding tubes for all first-line direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). The literature suggests that crushed administration can be considered for DAAs in patients with gastric access. However, caution should be exercised in patients with extragastric enteral tubes and in those with altered gastrointestinal tract anatomy.

[Palliative endoscopy]

Endoscopy is the leading method in the diagnostics of gastrointestinal malignancies. With the increasing incidences of various tumor entities, a palliative treatment situation is already present in many patients despite an increasing number of screening strategies. Palliative endoscopy can make an essential contribution to alleviation of tumor-related symptoms, such as dysphagia, malnutrition, cholestasis, ileus and pain. Various approaches can be offered to safeguard the nutrition, e.g. percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ), for maintenance of the gastrointestinal passage (stents) and secretion drainage or to drain congested hollow organs. Furthermore, in cases of inaccessibility or impassability of stenoses due to tumors, endosonographically assisted punctures offer the possibility to guarantee new drainage options or continuities by stent placement. In all interventions possible contraindications and complications must be taken into account.

Bevacizumab does not increase risk of perforation in patients undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy or jejunostomy placement

INTRODUCTION

Bevacizumab is a humanized anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, renal cell cancer, and recurrent glioblastomas. Its approval by US FDA was issued with a black box warning that its use has been associated with a risk of gastrointestinal (GI) tract perforation and that it should be discontinued in patients who have experienced such. The reported incidence of GI perforation in those receiving bevacizumab is as high as 3%. However, the incidence of GI perforation in those receiving bevacizumab undergoing GI endoscopic procedures has not been well studied.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-center observational study was conducted at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) between 2011 and 2018. All patients who underwent upper GI endoscopy with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) or percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (PEJ) tube placement and received bevacizumab within 6 months of their endoscopic procedure were included.

RESULTS

We identified 176 patients who underwent PEG or PEJ tube placement and received bevacizumab within 6 months. Eighty-one percent of patients were female (n = 144) and the median age was 61 years. Prior to endoscopic procedures, patients received a median of seven doses of bevacizumab. Patients received bevacizumab from 170 days before to 170 days after their endoscopic procedures (median 44 days). No GI perforations were observed during or after the time of the endoscopic procedures.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that receiving bevacizumab within 6 months prior to their endoscopic procedure was not associated with an increased risk of GI tract perforation and thus not an absolute contraindication to proceeding with PEG and PEJ tube placement in these patients.

Multicenter cohort study of patients with buried bumper syndrome treated endoscopically with a novel, dedicated device

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Buried bumper syndrome (BBS) is a rare adverse event of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement in which the internal bumper migrates through the stomal tract to become embedded within the gastric wall. Excessive tension between the internal and external bumpers, causing ischemic necrosis of the gastric wall, is believed to be the main etiologic factor. Several techniques for endoscopic management of BBS have been described using off-label devices. The Flamingo set is a novel, sphincterotome-like device specifically designed for BBS management. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Flamingo device in a large, homogeneous cohort of patients with BBS.

METHODS

A guidewire was inserted through the external access of the PEG tube into the gastric lumen. The Flamingo device was then introduced into the stomach over the guidewire. This dedicated tool can be flexed by 180 degrees, exposing a sphincterotome-like cutting wire, which is used to incise the overgrown tissue until the PEG bumper is exposed. A retrospective, international, multicenter cohort study was conducted on 54 patients between December 2016 and February 2019.

RESULTS

The buried bumper was successfully removed in 53 of 55 procedures (96.4%). The median time for the endoscopic removal of the buried bumper was 22 minutes (range, 5-60). Periprocedural endoscopic adverse events occurred in 7 procedures (12.7%) and were successfully managed endoscopically. A median follow-up of 150 days (range, 33-593) was performed in 29 patients (52.7%), during which no significant adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Through our experience, we found this dedicated novel device to be safe, quick, and effective for minimally invasive, endoscopic management of BBS.

Early versus late tube feeding initiation after PEG tube placement: Does time to feeding matter?

BACKGROUND

Variation exists in the timing of tube feed initiation after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement. The aim of our study was to review outcomes of early tube feed (ETF) versus late tube feed (LTF) initiation after PEG tube placement.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all trauma patients who underwent PEG tube placement from 1/2014 to 12/2018. ETF was defined as initiation < 24 h and LTF > 24 h after placement. The primary outcome measure was feeding intolerance and secondary outcomes included post-operative complications. All statistical analyses were performed using standard statistical methods (e.g. Pearson's Chi-squared, Fisher's exact and Mann Whitney-U tests).

RESULTS

There were 295 patients (164 ETF and 131 LTF) that received a PEG tube at our level 1 trauma center. There was no difference with feeding intolerance at 12 h (5% vs. 4%; p = 0.88), 24 h (1% vs. 2%; p = 1.00), and 48 h (4% vs. 4%; p = 1.00). There was no difference when comparing intolerance symptoms such as nausea and vomiting (1% vs. 2%; p = 0.79), abdominal tenderness (2% vs. 3%; p = 0.76), high gastric residuals (2% vs. 2%; p = 1.00) and aspiration (0% vs. 2%; p = 0.39). There was no difference when comparing post-operative complications (4% vs. 8%; p = 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

Early tube feeding after PEG placement is safe and equivalent to late tube feeding in the adult trauma population. Future prospective studies are warranted to establish the optimal timing for initiation of tube feeds after PEG tube placement.

Point Prevalence of Gastrostomy in a Paediatric Population

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of gastrostomy in a paediatric population.

METHODS

A population-based cross-sectional point prevalence study of paediatric gastrostomy was performed. Patients included were ages 0 to 19 years, living within 3 inner-city London boroughs; Southwark, Lambeth, and Lewisham. Patients were identified as having a gastrostomy in situ via Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) and community nursing databases. Electronic healthcare records were scrutinised to confirm current use of a gastrostomy. The main outcome measures were the point prevalence of gastrostomy in the paediatric population (gastrostomies/100,000 children), primary diagnosis, indication underlying gastrostomy insertion, and age at insertion.

RESULTS

The total population studied was 946,709, of whom 213,920 were of age 0 to 19 years. Of these, 179 had a gastrostomy in situ giving a point prevalence for gastrostomy in the paediatric population of 83.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 71.4-96.0)/100,000 children. This varied between age groups: 0 to 4 years: 79.6 (57.3-102.0)/100,000, 5 to 9 years: 116.3 (88.7-143.9)/100,000, 10 to 14: years 87.9 (61.9-113.9)/100,000 and 15 to 19: years 41.4 (22.1-60.1)/100,000. The most common primary diagnoses were neurological disorders (57.1%), and structural abnormalities (16.2%). Unsafe swallow was the most common indication (61%), followed by nutritional or fluid supplementation (28.6%), and behavioural reasons (8.7%). The majority (85.1%) of gastrostomies were inserted under the age of 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first UK population-based study of paediatric gastrostomy, identifying a point prevalence of 84/100,000 children. The peak prevalence is in children ages 5 to 9 years. Gastrostomy insertion after a child reaches school age is uncommon.

Laparoscopic vs open insertion of feeding gastrostomy tube in adults with head and neck cancers: A case-matched comparative study

BACKGROUND

Patients with head and neck cancers may require feeding tube gastrostomy (FTG) during their treatment. Surgical gastrostomy is indicated in patients who fail or unsuitable for endoscopic or radiologic FTG insertion.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of a novel laparoscopic technique to the insertion of feeding tube gastrostomy (FTG) in patients with head and neck cancer vs conventional open surgery.

METHODS

Patients were randomly matched on a 1:1 basis according to whether the procedure was therapeutic or prophylactic and whether a concomitant less major surgical procedure was required.

RESULTS

The groups (17 patients in each group) were comparable for age, sex distribution, ASA score, body mass index, serum albumin levels and the frequencies of previous upper abdominal surgery, hypoalbuminaemia and prior chemoradiotherapy and/or cancer surgery. There were no conversions to open surgery. No significant differences were detected between the groups with regard to the operating time (median, 40 vs 60 minutes, P = .053) and 30-day clinically significant morbidity (17.6% vs 23.5%, P = .180) or mortality (11.8% in each group). However, laparoscopy was associated with significantly shorter hospital stay (0 vs 2.8 days, P < .001) and greater proportion of day-case procedures (64.7% vs 0%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic insertion of FTG is safe, can be performed as a day-case procedure, and is associated with shorter hospital stay compared with open surgery; it should be preferred over open surgery where local expertise exists.

Routine anti-reflux surgery combined with gastrostomy in children: is it really necessary? Our single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

To study gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children undergoing gastrostomy in a single pediatric institution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study of patients undergoing gastrostomy from 2000 to 2017 was carried out. Demographic data, clinical data, progression, and complications were recorded. GER was considered positive in patients with clinical signs requiring antisecretory treatment, prokinetic treatment, or anti-reflux surgery to control symptoms.

RESULTS

207 patients with a median age of 2 years [R: 0.25-18] were included. Neurological impairment was the most frequent underlying condition (74%). Swallowing difficulty and undernourishment were the main surgical indications for gastrostomy. Prior to gastrostomy, 96 out of 207 patients (46%) showed GER symptoms. Combined fundoplication and gastrostomy was performed in 41 (43%) patients with preexisting GER, 6 of whom showed GER worsening (4 required redo fundoplication). 5 complications following fundoplication were noted - gastric perforation, sustained Dumping syndrome, and gastroesophageal stenosis. 55 out of 96 (57%) patients with preexisting GER underwent gastrostomy alone. Clinical signs disappeared in 16 of them (29%) and improved or stabilized in 19 (35%). GER worsening occurred in 20 patients (36%), with subsequent fundoplication being required in 10 cases. In patients with no previous clinical signs (111 out of 207), GER symptoms occurred following gastrostomy in just 18 cases (16%), and only 2 patients required fundoplication.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, routine anti-reflux surgery combined with gastrostomy is not justified. Individualized fundoplication should be considered in case of medical treatment failure. Further studies with an adequate design are required to establish which patients could really benefit from this procedure.