Results of direct percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy, an alternative method for providing jejunal feeding.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the results of direct percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (DPEJ) as a method for jejunal feeding.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective study of all patients who were referred for DPEJ between October 1998, when the procedure was implemented at our institution, and January 2000. Medical records were reviewed to assess technical success, complications, and the need for repeat procedures. Patient satisfaction with DPEJ was also evaluated by means of standardized telephone interviews.


RESULTS
In 26 (72%) of 36 patients, DPEJ placement was successful. During the mean follow-up of 107 days, none of the patients with DPEJ required reintervention for tube malfunction or displacement. Two patients developed a persistent enterocutaneous fistula following the removal of the DPEJ tube. No other procedure-related complications were noted. Fifteen (78%) of 19 patients who responded to follow-up questions reported an overall satisfaction rating of 8 or higher on a 10-point scale (1, completely dissatisfied, to 10, completely satisfied).


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that DPEJ is an effective and safe method for providing jejunal tube feeding. A low reintervention rate along with high patient satisfaction makes DPEJ an attractive alternative to the more commonly placed jejunostomy feeding tubes.
Rumalla
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Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Baron
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TH
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal; D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000379:methods*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007582:Jejunostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome