Gastric Electrical Stimulators Causing Erosion Through the Colonic Wall

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Gastroparesis is a chronic stomach-emptying disorder causing nausea, vomiting, and pain.
• Gastric electrical stimulation (GES) is an option for refractory gastroparesis.
• GES generally has a low complication rate, with infection being most common.

Observation:

• This report details an unusual complication of GES.
• The gastric electrical stimulator electrodes eroded through the colonic wall.

Findings:

• Electrode erosion into the colon is a rare but serious complication of GES.
• This complication was observed in a patient with gastroparesis.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of monitoring for rare complications after GES implantation.
• May inform surgical techniques and device placement to prevent colonic erosion.
• Underscores the need for vigilance in managing patients with implanted GES devices.