Percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A safe and effective technique

Abstract

Background : : Percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy (PRG) was considered as an alternative technique for long-term enteral nutrition, and the current study is aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of this technique in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at a single medical center. Methods : : From July 2017 to October 2020, a total of 14 patients underwent PRG with ALS were included in this retrospective study with a median age of 64.0 years, and 78.6% were male. The procedure comprised a dilation of the stomach via a nasogastric catheter, followed by puncture and gastrostomy tube placement under fluoroscopic guidance. The technical success rate and clinical outcomes were recorded over 3 months following the procedure. Results : : The technical success rate was 100%. During the follow-up period, minor complications were reported in 2 of patients (14.3%) including superficial skin infection and early tube block. Neither major complications nor mortality were observed. Body mass index of the patients increased significantly from 16.4 ± 2.1 kg/m2 to 17.1 ± 2.0 kg/m2 (t = –13.77; P < 0.001), and the albumin level increased significantly from 37.5 ± 2.3 g/L to 41.8 ± 1.6 g/L (t = –8.82, P < 0.001). Conclusion : : PRG is a relatively safe and effective method for ALS patients, and deserves widespread clinical acceptance.

Keywords

• amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; deglutition disorders; gastrostomy; interventional radiology