Effect of a Polyethylene Endoluminal Duodeno-Jejunal Tube (EDJT) on Weight Gain: A Feasibility Study in a Porcine Model

Background: Decreased absorption of nutrients results in weight loss. Apart from a surgical bypass or restriction, or pharmacological manipulations, novel approaches include endoluminal devices placed inside the stomach or intestine which could be used to achieve weight loss. Our goal is to verify the technical feasibility of an Endoluminal Duodeno-Jejunal Tube (EDJT) in reducing weight gain in a living porcine model and its safety in a short to medium survival. Methods: 8 45-kg Yorkshire pigs were used for this study. 4 pigs were used as controls, whereas 3 pigs had a 180-cm and 1 had a 360-cm EDJT implanted and fixed to the first part of the duodenum proximal to the ampulla of Vater with a solenoid circumferential suture by way of a duodenotomy. The EDJT is a 25-mm diameter and 0.05-mm thickness polyethylene tube. The intent was to avoid the mixing of food and biliopancreatic juice for its entire length. Results: Each pig was evaluated daily for symptoms of distress and weighed weekly for 7 weeks. No major complications were observed. The percentage weight changes 7 weeks after surgery in the control group, 180-cm group, and 360-cm group were 22.5%, 6%, and −2.8%, respectively. The EDJT groups (180-cm, 360-cm) had significantly slower weight gains than the control group (P=0.005). Conclusion: Use of an EDJT is safe; no major complications, such as obstruction, intussusception, or pancreatitis occurred. The EDJT slowed weight gain dramatically in a porcine model when compared to the controls. A trend of reduced weight gain was obtained with a longer tube.