Intraperitoneal infusion as a complication of needle catheter feeding jejunostomy.

The needle catheter feeding jejunostomy is being increasingly utilized for postoperative nutritional support. We report a case of catheter dislodgement with intraperitoneal infusion of an elemental diet with subsequent peritonitis and death. A review of the literature reveals this complication to occur in 1.5% of patients, even when the serosa of the small bowel has been attached to the anterior abdominal wall. Recommendations are made regarding the prevention and management of such complications.