Persistent gastrocutaneous fistula: Factors affecting the need for closure

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy vs surgical gastrostomy in infants with congenital heart disease

“…However, this procedure is very short, and at our institution is scheduled to coincide with other required procedures, such as cardiac catheterizations, cardiac surgical procedures, dental, or otolaryngologic procedures. Of note, after surgically placed gastrostomy tube removal in children, the incidence of persistent gastrocutaneous fistula is high (22%‐44%), and a significant percentage of those required operative closure (16%‐32%) . In our cohort, we found that approximately 25% of patients needed SGT closure requiring significant anesthesia resources and additional exposure.…”

“…Of note, after surgically placed gastrostomy tube removal in children, the incidence of persistent gastrocutaneous fistula is high (22%-44%), 30,31 and a significant percentage of those required operative closure (16%-32%). 32,33 In our cohort, we found that approximately 25% of patients needed SGT closure requiring significant anesthesia resources and additional exposure. The most important factor predisposing to persistent gastrocutaneous fistula appears to be the length of time the tube is in place before its removal.…”

Risk factors for a persistent gastrocutaneous fistula following gastrostomy device removal: A tertiary center experience

“…The reported incidence of a persistent GCF ranges from 16% to 45%. [ 1 2 3 4 5 ] Our data show an incidence rate of 58% of developing a persistent GCF after GD removal. We believe that our higher incidence may be related to the fact that we have a significant number of young patients aged <2 years that had a GD inserted and in situ for a prolonged duration of time (>2 years).…”

“…Few studies have attempted to determine the reason for a persisting GCF and have found the length of use to be a main contributing factor. [ 1 2 3 4 5 ] The aim of our study is to evaluate a correlation between comorbidity and patient-related and gastrostomy-related risk factors for developing a GCF post-GD removal.…”

Initial Results of Endoscopic Gastrocutaneous Fistula Closure in Children Using an Over-the-Scope Clip

“…GCF occurs in 11%-50% of patients who have a gastrostomy tube for over 9 months and is directly related to the length of time the tube has been in place. 3 Open incision with gastric repair and fascial closure is the standard technique for treatment of a persistent GCF. Open repair has a high success rate; however, local wound complications such as infection and dehiscence may occur, predisposing the patient for a recurrence of the fistula.…”