THE RELATION OF GASTROSTOMY TO INOPERABLE CARCINOMA OF THE ESOPHAGUS

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Abstract
Many surgeons never perform gastrostomy for the relief of malignant stenosis of the esophagus on the ground that it rarely prolongs the lives of patients in a satisfactory manner and contributes little to their comfort. The artificial feeding through the abdominal wall, even if the patients are permitted to chew their own food, is viewed as so unnatural and disgusting that the increased length of life secured thereby is not considered desirable. In my experience, a larger number of physicians and surgeons advise postponing a gastrostomy until it becomes impossible for the patient to swallow solid food any longer. In general, every attempt is made to postpone gastrostomy as long as possible. Experience with gastrostomy, however, by those who have had opportunity to study the postoperative history of patients properly selected has proved that it does prolong life, and for a long time in many patients contributes considerably to their

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