Creation of compression gastroenterostomy by means of the oral, percutaneous, or surgical introduction of magnets: feasibility study in swine.

PURPOSE: The use of magnets placed surgically, percutaneously, and orally to create compression gastroenteric anastomoses was evaluated in 11 swine.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Disc-shaped, jacketed rare-earth magnets with cutting edges varying in diameter from 0.250 inch (6.4 mm) to 0.500 inch (12.7 mm) were used in seven swine, and rectangular types were used in three swine. Magnets were implanted surgically in five and introduced by means of standard interventional techniques through a gastrostomy in two and perorally in four animals. Anastomoses (n = 8) were studied grossly and histologically for acute changes at 5-13 days and for 30-day patency in one.
RESULTS: Of the nine surviving pigs, there were seven completely patent anastomoses and one partially patent anastomosis at 7-13 days. At 5 days the anastomosis was not patent in the remaining animal. One anastomosis became occluded at 30 days. There was no anastomotic leakage, infection, or bleeding.
CONCLUSIONS: Leak-free gastrojejunostomies can be created by inserting magnets perorally, percutaneously, or surgically.