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Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Gastrostomy tube placement - series
Gastrostomy tube placement - series

Alternative Names    Return to top

Gastrostomy tube insertion; G-tube insertion; PEG tube insertion; Stomach tube insertion; Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion

Definition    Return to top

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

Description    Return to top

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 a small cut on the left side of the belly area. The surgeon uses stitches to close the stomach around the tube as well as the cut.

Why the Procedure is Performed    Return to top

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:

Risks    Return to top

Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for surgical or endoscopic feeding tube insertion are:

After the Procedure    Return to top

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

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

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:

Update Date: 5/8/2008

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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