Clinical Evaluation of Laparoscopic-Assisted Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (LAPEG)

Abstract

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the standard modality for long-term enteral nutrition; however, complications are common. To avoid these complications, we introduce laparoscopic-assisted PEG (LAPEG) and describe its advantages. The aim of this study was to describe the advantages of LAPEG relative to other procedures. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 19 patients who underwent LAPEG at our institution from June 2008 to February 2013. They were thought to be difficult cases for PEG. LAPEG was successfully performed in 18 patients (average age, 78.5 years; range, 50–98 years). The average surgical duration was 32.4 ± 6.2 minutes. No major intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. Feeding tubes were successfully placed in all patients within some days. LAPEG is a safe, effective, and simple procedure. The strongest advantage of LAPEG is the possibility of observing the intraperitoneal condition and the ability to perform PEG safely without any complications. LAPEG should be the first-choice procedure if it is difficult to accomplish conventional PEG.