Service evaluation of having an additional CT scan for motor neurone disease patients undergoing a gastrostomy.

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a 6-month service evaluation following the addition of a computed tomography (CT) abdomen scan to the gastrostomy placement pathway for patients with motor neurone disease (MND).

Background: several patients had failed percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placements. A CT scan was introduced to identify if it would be possible to place a PEG or another gastrostomy such as a radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG).

Aims: To assess cost-effectiveness of adding a CT scan to the pathway and evaluate if it was improving patient experience.

Method: Data from 1 February 2024 to 1 August 2024 indicated when the PEG was planned, CT outcomes and whether the gastrostomy was successful.

Results: Results from patients (n=19) showed changes from the CT scan for 4 patients; 18 patients had a successful gastrostomy. There were cost savings from the implementation of the CT scan. There were minimal differences reported by patients in post-procedural complications.

Conclusion: Incorporating a CT scan before gastrostomy procedures for patients with MND can enhance planning, reduce failures, and improve patient outcomes. Cost savings were evident.