Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in porcines performed with standard medical instruments used in a general hospital routine

PURPOSE: To perform a endoscopic gastrostomy by the introducer method with routine instruments used in a general hospital, without special instruments of special kits.METHODS: This procedure was performed in pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) under observation for seven days and then submitted to euthanasia. The technique was evaluated for macroscopic and histologic parameters. RESULTS: All animals had a good evolution without major complications. Some minor complications ocurred like a rupture of Foley catheter balloon and subcutaneous space abscess.CONCLUSION: The percutaneous gastrostomy with routine general hospital instruments is sucessful performed, is safe, cheap and must be performed by skilled endoscopists.