Advancing care in malignant gastric outlet obstruction: a contemporary review of management strategies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to summarize the most pertinent data on management of malignant gastric outlet obstruction (MGOO), with an emphasis on recent updates. RECENT FINDINGS: Traditionally, options to restore luminal patency in patients with MGOO were surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ) and endoscopic insertion of an enteral stent. The latter was reserved for patients with poor performance status or anticipated survival less than 2 months. Endoscopic gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) is a newer technique that aims to mimic a SGJ and involves placement of a lumen apposing metal stent (LAMS) from the stomach directly into the jejunum. In a recent randomized trial of EUS-GE vs. enteral stent, the former was associated with reduced re-interventions, improved stent patency, and improved patient reported eating habits. Recent publications suggest that EUS-GE may offer substantial advantages over S-GJ; a randomized trial is currently underway. Venting gastrostomy may be the most suitable option for patients with markedly impaired gastric motility or with multiple luminal obstructions. SUMMARY: MGOO is a debilitating late complication of advanced upper gastrointestinal malignancies, resulting from blockage or mechanical compression of the distal stomach, pyloric antrum or duodenum. Various modalities are currently available, and should be tailored to patient's expectations, underlying cause, life expectancy, and functional status.