The Paired T-Fastener Technique: A Bolster-Free Gastropexy for Laparoscopic Gastrostomy Tube Placement.

Purpose: Gastropexy during laparoscopic gastrostomy tube (GT) insertion can be technically challenging. T-fasteners are an effective method of gastropexy. However, the use of external bolsters requires an additional procedure for removal and may cause skin complications due to pressure necrosis. We describe our experience utilizing T-fasteners in a novel way that eliminates external bolsters during laparoscopic GT placement. Methods: Pediatric patients requiring enteral access who underwent gastrostomy at a single institution using the paired T-fastener technique were reviewed. Gastropexy was achieved by passing pairs of T-fasteners, under laparoscopic and/or endoscopic guidance, through single stab incisions into the stomach in a square configuration, allowing the suture from one T-fastener to be tied subcutaneously to its paired suture. This eliminates the need for external bolsters. Operative time and 30-day postoperative complications, including local wound infection, granulation tissue formation, bleeding, and tube replacement, are reported. Results: Thirty patients underwent gastrostomy placement using the paired T-fastener technique. Mean age was 9.2 years (standard deviation [SD] 6.9) and mean weight 29.9 kg (SD 21.0). Mean tube length was 2.2 cm (SD 0.71). Eight patients underwent an additional procedure at the time of gastrostomy. Mean operative time was 74.4 minutes (SD 39.7). Five patients developed a local wound infection requiring antibiotics. Five developed granulation tissue. Seven patients underwent tube replacement within 30 days for dislodgment or stem upsize. Conclusion: The paired T-fastener technique is a safe and efficient method for primary button gastrostomy placement. This method eliminates the need for additional trocars or external bolsters and may be helpful in patients with thick abdominal walls.

Prenatal diagnosis of rapidly enlarging choledochal cyst with gastric outlet obstruction.

Choledochal cysts are congenital malformations of the biliary tract that involve aberrant configurations of the pancreaticobiliary ductal system. The pathology exists on a spectrum from fusiform dilation of the common bile duct to multiple dilations involving the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts with potential risks of malignant transformation and hepatic fibrosis. Advancements in ultrasound technology have increased the incidence of prenatal diagnosis of choledochal cysts. Here, we present the case of a prenatally diagnosed initially asymptomatic Type I choledochal cyst with rapid progression in the neonatal period to a complete gastric outlet obstruction within the first month of life. We demonstrate the feasibility of cyst resection and reconstruction with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy in the neonatal age group. Finally, we discuss management of the case based on evolving imaging findings and laboratory evidence of impending liver dysfunction.