What is the main indication for performing a percutaneous jejunostomy?

Performing a percutaneous jejunostomy is primarily indicated for feeding purposes, particularly in patients who require long-term enteral nutrition but are unable to meet their nutritional needs through oral intake. This can include patients with conditions such as neurological disorders, esophageal obstruction, or other gastrointestinal diseases that affect their ability to eat normally.

A jejunostomy allows for the direct delivery of nutrients into the jejunum, bypassing the stomach entirely, which is beneficial in situations where gastric emptying is delayed or contraindicated. This method provides an effective way to ensure that patients receive adequate nutrition, which is essential for recovery, maintaining body weight, improving immune function, and overall health status.

While preparation for surgery, pain management, and fluid drainage can be important in the context of patient care, they do not accurately reflect the primary indication for a percutaneous jejunostomy, which is focused on nutritional support. Thus, the emphasis on feeding as the main indication is what distinguishes this procedure and highlights its critical role in managing patients with specific nutritional needs.