Old-fashioned but modern tube cervical esophagostomy

Background Nasogastric tubes (NGT) are used widely for feeding and decompressions of stomach, but they are associated with several complications and discomfort. When prolonged use of NGT is required, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) should be considered. However, PEG is not feasible for patients with previous gastrectomy. We have performed tube cervical esophagostomy (TCE) for such difficult cases of PEG. Methods The current study focused on 7 patients requiring TCE for feeding or decompression from 2004 to 2005 at Tottori Municipal Hospital in Japan. Results The procedure is relatively simply to perform under local anesthesia and significant complications were not experienced. Conclusions Feeding or decompressive TCE is useful alternative procedure in patients where PEG is not feasible or unacceptable.