What surgical procedure involves creating an opening into the jejunum?

A jejunostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening directly into the jejunum, which is the second segment of the small intestine. This procedure is typically performed to allow nutrition or medication to be delivered directly into the jejunum, bypassing the stomach and duodenum.

Indications for a jejunostomy may include situations where a patient is unable to take food orally due to medical conditions affecting swallowing or absorption, such as certain cancers, neurological disorders, or after extensive surgery on the gastrointestinal tract. By creating this opening, a feeding tube can be placed, facilitating nutritional support while minimizing the risk of aspiration.

The other procedures listed serve different anatomical areas or functions. A gastrostomy creates an opening in the stomach, an ileostomy involves the opening of the ileum (the last part of the small intestine), and a duodenostomy involves the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. Each of these has its particular indications and applications that are distinct from those of a jejunostomy.