What is a gastrostomy?
Critically ill or injured patients occasionally loose the
ability to swallow for prolonged periods of time. A
nasogastric tube (NG tube) or feeding tube provides a
temporary way to give patients medications or nutrition.
Because these tubes are inserted through the nose or mouth,
they are usually not suitable for long periods of time.
Instead, a tube inserted directly into the stomach through
the skin overlying the stomach is usually required. The
procedure is called a gastrostomy. The tube, called a
gastrostomy tube (also G tube or stomach tube), may be
inserted either surgically or by using an endoscope called a
gastroscope.
How is a gastrostomy performed?
Surgical gastrostomy is performed in the operating room. The
patient requires general anesthesia and the surgeon inserts
the gastrostomy tube directly into the stomach after making
an incision in the abdominal wall. The endoscopic technique
involves the use of an gastroscope, a lighted flexible tube
that is inserted through the mouth into the stomach. The
gastroscope enables the doctor to see whatever is at the end
of the flexible tube. The patient receives sedation plus a
local anesthetic. The gastrostomy tube is inserted through
the skin into the stomach while the doctor is looking into
the stomach through the gastroscope. After the gastrostomy
tube is secured, the nasogastric or feeding tube is removed.
How long is a gastrostomy tube
used?
The gastrostomy tube may remain as long as the patient needs
it. Under certain circumstances they can be used for years.
Does a gastrostomy hurt?
Not usually. There may be minor soreness at the incision
following surgery, but with both methods of insertion
medication can be used to reduce pain.
Are there any potential
complications associated with a gastrostomy and G tube?
Complications associated with gastrostomy tube insertion are
rare but include bleeding, infection, and improper tube
placement.
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Gastrostomy tube entering stomach through
abdominal wall |
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Gastrostomy
