ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy

Definition

A gastrostomy feeding tube insertion is the placement of a feeding tube through the skin and the stomach wall, directly into the stomach.

Alternative Names

Description

Gastrostomy feeding tube insertion is often done through the mouth, by a procedure called endoscopy. Before the tube is inserted, numbing medicine is applied on the area and the patient is given sleep medicines through a vein.

This procedure can also be done surgically while the patient is under general anesthesia (asleep and pain-free) A small, flexible, hollow tube with a balloon or special tip is inserted into the stomach through small cut on the left side of the bellly area. The surgeon uses stitches to close the stomach around the tube, as well as the cut.

Why the Procedure is Performed

Gastrostomy feeding tubes are put in for different reasons. They may be needed for a short while or permanently. This procedure may be recommended for:

• Babies with birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (for example, esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
• Patients who cannot swallow correctly
• Patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to stay healthy
• Patients who often breath in food when eating

Recovery

The stomach and abdomen will heal in 5 to 7 days. Moderate pain can be treated with medications. Feedings will start slowly with clear liquids, and increase slowly.

The patient/family will be taught:

• How to care for the skin around the tube
• Signs and symptoms of infection
• What to do if the tube is pulled out
• Signs and symptoms of tube blockage
• How to empty the stomach through the tube
• How and what to feed through the tube
• How to hide the tube under clothing
• What normal activities can be continued

Outlook (Prognosis)

This is most often a simple surgery with a good outlook.

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia are:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

• Bleeding
• Infection