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Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify short-term complications after video-assisted gastrostomy in children and to examine the association between complications and underlying disease.

Methods: This was a retrospective study at a single institution. Data for all children who underwent video-assisted gastrostomy during 12 years was collected. Complications occurring within three months postoperatively were analyzed.

Results: Among 421 children undergoing video-assisted gastrostomy, 402 were included in the study. The median age at surgery was two years (range one month-14 years). The most common underlying disorder was neurological disease (49%). There were two major postoperative complications and 78% had minor complications. Minor complications included granulation tissue (43%), leakage (16%), wound infection (14%), vomiting, dislodgement and pain. There was no significant difference in frequency of the various complications when compared between the underlying diseases (p=0.10-0.82). Wound infection was registered in overall 14% and occurred least frequently in children with neurologic disease and syndromes (10% and 9% respectively).

Conclusion: Serious complications after video-assisted gastrostomy are rare, while minor complications occur in 78% of the children. There is no association between the frequency of complications and underlying disease according to this study.