Laparoscopic gastrostomy/jejunostomy

1. Laparoscopic gastrostomy or jejunostomy provides a safe and effective method for providing nutritional support to patients who are unable to maintain an adequate intake for metabolic requirements. 2. The advantages of the laparoscopic technique include direct intra-abdominal visualization, a shorter anesthesia time, the decreased need for postoperative narcotics, elimination of the need for endoscopy and suturing, and the prevention of complications associated with open abdominal procedures. 3. The perioperative nurse, who is prepared for and knowledgeable about the nursing implications of the laparoscopic approaches to gastrostomy and jejunostomy, will successfully contribute to an optimal patient outcome.