Endoscopic magnetic gastroenteric anastomosis for palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction: a prospective multicenter study

BackgroundPalliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction remains challenging. Although there are 2 established treatment options, ie, surgical gastrojejunostomy and endoscopic duodenal stent insertion, there is an ongoing search for a technique that would combine the safety and rapid effect of duodenal stent placement with the long-term efficacy and low reintervention rate of a surgical gastrojejunostomy.ObjectiveTo investigate the safety and success rate of endoscopic creation of a gastroenteric anastomosis formed by magnetic compression and stent placement.DesignProspective, multicenter cohort study.SettingFour referral centers.PatientsThe expected number of patients with symptomatic malignant gastric outlet obstruction to be included at the participating hospitals during a year was 40. Because of a serious adverse device event, the study was terminated after inclusion of 18 patients.InterventionCreation of an endoscopic gastroenteric anastomosis by using the Cook Magnetic Anastomosis Device with transanastomotic deployment of a self-expandable stent.Main Outcome MeasurementsPrimary endpoints were safety and success rate associated with the creation of an endoscopic gastrojejunostomy by using a magnetic anastomotic device with transanastomotic deployment of a self-expandable stent.ResultsBecause of a serious adverse event, the study was terminated prematurely. A success rate of 66.7% (12 of 18 patients) was achieved; 1 serious adverse event (stent perforation) occurred leading to the death of the patient. Three patients (25%) experienced an adverse device effect (stent migration).LimitationsSmall sample size, lack of a control group.ConclusionEndoscopic creation of a gastroenteric anastomosis by magnetic compression is feasible and safe; however, the necessity of a stent led to serious morbidity and even mortality in this study. The current system can therefore not be recommended for clinical use.