Endoscopic vs Surgical Gastrojejunostomy for Gastric Outlet Obstruction

(EAT-GO Trial)

This trial compares two treatments for gastric outlet obstruction (GOO), a condition often caused by cancers that block the stomach's exit. The goal is to determine which treatment—endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (EGJ) or surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ)—better alleviates symptoms like nausea and vomiting and helps patients eat normally. EGJ involves placing a stent to bypass the blockage using a scope, while SGJ involves surgery to connect the stomach to the small intestine. The trial seeks participants with specific cancers who experience symptoms like frequent vomiting or severe stomach pain and cannot eat solid food. As an unphased trial, it offers patients the chance to contribute to valuable research that could enhance future treatment options for GOO.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (EGJ) is generally safe for patients with a blockage in the stomach area. In studies, most patients tolerated the procedure well and did not experience serious side effects, though some reported mild issues like temporary pain or discomfort afterward.

Surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ) is a more traditional surgery that connects the stomach to the small intestine. It is well-known and commonly used. Like any surgery, it carries risks such as infection or bleeding, but medical teams usually manage these effectively.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for gastric outlet obstruction because they offer less invasive options compared to traditional surgeries. The endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (EGJ) is a standout because it uses an endoscopic ultrasound to guide the placement of a stent, creating a new pathway between the stomach and small intestine without the need for large incisions. This approach potentially reduces recovery time and complications associated with open surgery. Meanwhile, the surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ) is a laparoscopic procedure, which is less invasive than traditional open surgery, aiming to achieve similar results with less trauma to the patient. Both methods highlight advancements in reducing patient recovery time and improving overall outcomes.

This trial compares endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (EGJ) with surgical gastrojejunostomy (SGJ) for treating gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). Research has shown that EGJ is highly successful, particularly when surgery isn't an option. Studies have found that EGJ enables patients to start eating solid foods sooner and reduces the need for additional procedures. It is also safe and effective for patients when other treatments have failed. Meanwhile, SGJ is a well-established method that creates a new pathway between the stomach and small intestine to bypass the blockage. Both treatments in this trial aim to relieve symptoms like nausea and vomiting, allowing patients to eat normally and receive proper nutrition.²³⁴⁶⁷