Outcome of laparoscopic feeding jejunostomy, comparison of a pure laparoscopic technique with Witzel’s tunnel to open technique: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract

IntroductionObstructive upper GI cancer commonly uses feeding jejunostomy as a standard procedure. Surgeons implemented laparoscopic feeding jejunostomy via minimally invasive surgery, employing a variety of techniques. This study assessed the perioperative results, safety, and costs associated with laparoscopic versus open jejunostomy surgeries. We used only Witzel’s tunnel and standard laparoscopic instruments.Patients and methodsWe collected data from all patients who underwent feeding jejunostomy between January 2016 and June 2018. We recorded pertinent data on baseline, surgical outcomes, postoperative results, complications, and costs. The study excluded patients with jejunostomy as a conversion or an addition.ResultWe divided the 74 patients into 2 groups: 30 underwent laparoscopy and 44 underwent open surgery. The mean operational times were 89.67 and 91.64 min and showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.678). The mean morphine dosage was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (3.3 vs. 7.19, p = < 0.001). Laparoscopic surgery lowered the median time of feeding initiation, feeding accomplished, and postoperative stay, although none of these reached statistical significance. There were significantly higher surgical expenses in the laparoscopic group (16,410 vs. 11,685 Thai Baht) (p < 0.001); however, median overall expenditures did not significantly differ (105,147 vs. 116,198 Thai Baht) (p = 0.387). Laparoscopic versus open surgery had similar incidences of postoperative complications (20% vs. 25%, p = 0.846). The feeding tube catheter location was infection-free in all patients in our study.ConclusionLaparoscopic jejunostomy feeding was safe, and postoperative morphine consumption was lower. Increasing operational costs did not have a significant impact on overall expenditures. Witzel’s tunnel may reduce jejunostomy site infections.