Gastrojejunostomy

What to expect?

If you are eligible for a gastrojejunostomy, you will be referred to an interventional radiologist for its placement. Often, a PRG precedes the placement of a gastrojejunostomy.

Please inform your practicing physician if you use medication that prevents blood coagulation. If possible, you will have to stop using this medication before the procedure.

You may need a brief stay at the hospital before your procedure (day treatment). Please do not eat 6 hours before the procedure.

The procedure will take place at the radiology department. You will be lying down on your back with an x-ray tube. This table is designed for use with image-guided procedures.

To switch from a PRG to a gastrojejunostomy you may need a local anesthetic. Your interventional radiologist will insert a catheter together with a guidewire into the jejunum, the middle section of your small intestine. Once everything is in place, the gastrojejunostomy will be put in over the wire. We use a contrast agent to verify the position of the tube.

Many patients are able to go home on the same day of the procedure. You may experience mild discomfort around the opening of the tube. The tube can be used directly after placement.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Complications during the switch from PRG to gastrojejunostomy are rare. Some people may experience peritonitis, gastrointestinal perforation (ruptured bowel), or skin infection surrounding the area where the tube was inserted, and bruising.