The usefulness and safety of the introducer technique using a bumper-button-type device as compared with the pull method for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy.

Purpose: To describe our initial experiences with the standardized introducer technique for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and to compare clinical outcomes and complications with the pull technique. Methods: The introducer technique was used on 91 patients. The clinical outcomes of procedures were retrospectively collected and compared with those of 22 patients who had procedures using the pull technique. Results: Mean operation time was significantly longer in the introducer technique group as compared with the pull technique group. Increased inflammation markers (body temperature, white blood cell count, and C-reactive protein) were observed in the pull technique group as compared with the introducer technique group. Incidences of peristomal infection and pneumonia were lower in the introducer method group than in the pull method group. Conclusions: The introducer technique is a useful and safe method for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in terms of reduced incidences of peristomal infection, pneumonia, pain, and discomfort.