Outcome of Patients With Malignant Gastric Outlet Obstruction Undergoing Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Gastroenterostomy or Enteral Metal Stenting: a Prospective Cohort Study

Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) refers to a mechanical blockage of the distal stomach or duodenum that prevents normal passage of food and liquids. According to literature, 50-80% of GOO cases are caused by malignant tumors compressing or directly invading the gastrointestinal tract. Among patients with pancreatic cancer, 15-20% develop GOO \[1,2\]. GOO is also considered a poor prognostic factor in malignancy, with a median survival time of only 3-6 months \[3\]. Traditionally, management options for GOO include surgical gastrojejunostomy and endoscopic enteral metal stent (ES) placement. Endoscopic approaches are less invasive, allow earlier oral intake, and reduce hospital stay \[4-6\]. Considering that most patients with malignant GOO are debilitated, a less invasive option is often preferable. In recent years, endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE) has emerged as an alternative. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis comparing ES and EUS-GE found similar technical and clinical success rates, but significantly lower re-intervention rates in the EUS-GE group \[7\]. However, most existing studies are retrospective and lack systematic, prospective follow-up data comparing the two approaches remain lacking. This study aims to prospectively evaluate and compare the short- and long-term outcomes-including stent function, oral intake, nutritional status, and quality of life-of patients with malignant GOO undergoing either EUS-GE or conventional enteral stenting.