Percutaneous gastrostomy in radiologic practice

Long-term gastrostomy tubes have a well-accepted role in providing nutritional support. Traditionally they have been placed by surgeons and by endoscopists. In the last decade, radiologists have come to play a major role in the placement of gastrostomy and gastrojejunostomy devices, and can usually do so as effectively and at lesser expense. A technique for placement is outlined, with a discussion of patient selection and complications. A review of the literature is provided.