Clinical application of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy/jejunostomy in critically ill patients

Objective: To explore the clinical value of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy/jejunostomy (PEG/J) in critically ill patients.

Methods: We retrospectively analysed the clinical data of 30 critically ill patients who received PEG/J in our hospital. The indications, key operation procedures, peri-operative preparation, complications, and efficacy were recorded.

Results: Twenty-nine critically ill patients successfully received PEG/J. The mean operation time of PEG and PEJ were (7.5 +/- 2.5) min and (12.5 +/- 8.2) min, respectively, and the duration of tube functioning was (230 +/- 159) d; no procedure-related complications and serious complications were observed. Complications included local soft tissue infection (n = 1), J-tube dislodgment (n = 1), and obstruction of jejunal tube (n = 2). The serum levels of albumin and pre-albumin increased 4 weeks after operation; however, no significant difference was observed.

Conclusions: PEG/J is an effective, micro-invasive, safe, and convenient approach to establish a long-term gastrointestinal nutrition route for critically ill patients.