Laparoscopic feeding jejunostomy tube in oncology patients.

Laparoscopic-guided feeding jejunostomy tubes are being utilized in two specific groups of patients: (i) patients with resectable or locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas treated on a protocol of preoperative chemoradiation, who may require nutritional support, and (ii) patients with metastatic or obstructing foregut tumours who require a route for delivery of fluid and medication. The technique, rationale and results for our first 17 patients who underwent laparoscopic placement of a tube jejunostomy are described. Laparoscopic feeding tube placement is a safe and cost-effective method to gain enteral access and stage the oncology patient's disease. This procedure is less invasive than standard surgery for tumour staging and feeding tube placement, and facilitates formula advancement and the patient's early hospital release without morbidity or mortality.