Report on the impact of a service improvement programme in a well-established radiologically inserted gastrostomy service.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to evaluate whether the implementation of a service improvement programme improved the occurrence of radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) tube displacements, post-insertion. METHODS: A retrospective observational study of cancer patients was conducted over a 2-year period divided into two time points. Eighty-two RIG insertions were audited retrospectively; 42 in Time 1 and 40 in Time 2. RESULTS: Some 70% (n = 57) of patients had head and neck (H&N) malignancy, 24% (n = 20) had gastrointestinal cancer and 6% (n = 5) had a variety of other malignancies. Following the implementation of the service improvement programme, the number of RIG tube displacements almost halved from nine (21%) to five (12%). CONCLUSIONS: The present study offers persuasive evidence indicating that the implemented service improvement programme improved patient care; however, further research incorporating a more robust evaluation is necessary. People with advanced disease are living longer and so there is a need to maintain good nutritional support. This innovation offers the potential to enhance patients' quality of care and minimise complications.