Background and objectives

Placement of surgical gastric access is a common operative procedure, with multiple techniques. We describe a cost-effective, safe, and easy-to-perform primary endoscopic gastrostomy button placement in the pediatric population, using a novel double-transcutaneous lasso U-stitch push technique.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of a single center's experience of 24 consecutively performed primary gastrostomy button placements in infants and children aged 3 weeks to 20 years, from October 2012 through October 2014.

Results

The procedure was generally well tolerated, with no intraoperative complications. No conversions to laparoscopic or open procedures were necessary. There were no early tube dislodgements and no postoperative complications within the first 4 weeks.

Conclusion

The endoscopic primary gastrostomy button placement with a transcutaneous lasso U-stitch is a safe, fast, elegant, and cost-effective alternative to a standard percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement.