Cologastric fistula as a complication of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

M M Stefan1, G W Holcomb, A J Ross

  • 1Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104.

Insights

A rare cologastric fistula complication following percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) occurred in two pediatric patients. Technical adjustments during PEG placement may prevent this serious gastrointestinal issue.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Surgery
  • Endoscopic Procedures

Background:

  • Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a common procedure for enteral nutrition and decompression.
  • Complications, though rare, can arise from PEG placement.
  • Cologastric fistula is an infrequent but serious complication.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric cases of cologastric fistula following PEG placement were recently identified.
  • One fistula persisted even after the gastrostomy tube was removed.

Findings:

  • A specific mechanism for the development of cologastric fistula post-PEG in these pediatric cases is proposed.
  • Technical aspects of PEG placement are highlighted as crucial for preventing this rare complication.

Implications:

  • Understanding the proposed mechanism can guide preventative measures during PEG procedures in children.
  • Awareness of this rare complication is important for pediatricians and surgeons performing PEG.

Related Concept Videos

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction01:22

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction

Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy01:29

Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

An Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic procedure in which an endoscopist uses a flexible, lighted endoscope to visualize the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The procedure includes visualizing the oropharynx, esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum.
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:
Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP01:26

Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a diagnostic procedure that combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions related to the bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, and gallbladder. This procedure is beneficial for identifying and addressing blockages, gallstones, strictures, and tumors within the biliary or pancreatic systems. ERCP is both diagnostic and therapeutic, offering the ability to visualize and treat identified problems in one session.
Patient...
Enteral Nutrition II: Nasointestinal and Gastrostomy Feeding01:15

Enteral Nutrition II: Nasointestinal and Gastrostomy Feeding

Enteral nutrition encompasses various methods of delivering nutrition directly to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, bypassing traditional oral intake. It is particularly beneficial for patients who cannot eat by mouth but have a functioning digestive system. Key methods include nasointestinal feeding, gastrostomy, and jejunostomy, each suited to different clinical scenarios based on the patient's needs and condition.
Nasointestinal Feeding
Nasointestinal feeding involves placing a tube through...