A novel procedure for intestinal block performed for first time in Karnataka

Mysore/Mysuru: Apollo BGS Hospitals, Institute of Gastrosciences, has performed a rare and novel Endoscopic Gastro-Jejunostomy procedure for the first time in Karnataka and in the city of Mysuru, helping a 49-year-old male patient recover from his ailment.

The availability of Endoscopic Ultrasound expertise under Dr. Rajkumar P. Wadhwa, Chief Gastroenterologist and HoD, Institute of Gastrosciences, Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, opened new doors for the patient that could avoid an open surgery.

The patient had a cancer of pancreas and underwent surgical resection (Whipple’s pancreaticoduodenectomy) 5 years back. There was a recurrence of tumour which caused blockage of the intestinal loop that was also draining the bile.

Due to poor bile flow, patient developed infection in the bile (cholangitis) and pus collection in his liver. He had abdominal pain, distension and vomiting. He could not consume food orally.

As a routine, if such a scenario ensues, the option is to undergo open surgery to relieve the obstruction. Instead, he underwent the Endoscopic procedure.

Performing the novel procedure ‘Endoscopic Ultrasound guided Gastro-Jejunostomy’ Dr. Rajkumar Wadhwa said, “We placed a self-expanding metal stent between the stomach and a loop of small intestine. This opened up the pathway for drainage of bile and the intestinal secretions and as a result the patient’s infection and jaundice resolved, he was able to eat normally and was discharged within 24 hours of the procedure.”

N.G. Bharateesha Reddy, Vice-President & Unit Head, Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, informed that this is the first time the rare procedure Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) guided Gastro-Jejunostomy has been performed in Karnataka. “Very few centres in India have the expertise to perform this procedure, making us one among the select few hospitals in the country. This is a breakthrough achievement for us defining our advancement and progression in the Gastrosciences Excellence,” he claimed.