Gastrostomy: an improved technique.

Gastrostomy is a commonly performed procedure. The forceps described in this article help make this procedure easier and safer to carry out, reducing the need for complex and costly equipment. The forceps used have been adapted from standard surgical steel instruments by soldering a guidance device to one jaw. This device enables guided placement of a needle alongside the forceps tip. Any hospital technical service department could adapt standard forceps for this procedure.

Percutaneous transhepatic changing of an endoscopically placed stent.

Biliary stents are commonly positioned for the relief of obstructive jaundice secondary to malignancy. It is occasionally necessary to percutaneously replace a biliary stent placed by the endoscopist. This is usually because there has been progression of the tumour, which has prevented further endoscopic access. The technique described has real merit since it can further extend palliation.