[Tubular gastrostomy]

Development and generalization of the use of mechanical suturing apparatuses has led to re-evaluation of tubular gastrostomy. Use of the 1AG clamp ensures gastric tubulization under good safety conditions (quality of the suture and absence of opening of the gastric tube). The choice of location of the tube depends upon the size of the stomach. The main indication is for feeding gastrostomies of long duration, particularly cases with irreversible lesions of the esophagus or in the ENT sphere. The quality of the apparatus and the facility with which it can be employed has transformed survival in these patients. A further possible indication is in acute necrotic pancreatitis, its use suppressing complications of classical gastrostomies (Fontan type) (gastric fistulae, disinsertions, difficulties with the apparatus). The only inconvenience of this procedure, minimal in regard to the benefits obtained, is the need for surgical closure.