MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Feeding tube insertion

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Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy

Contents of this page:
Alternative names Definition Description Indications	Risks Expectations after surgery Convalescence

Alternative names

Gastrostomy tube insertion; G-tube insertion; PEG tube insertion; Stomach tube insertion

Definition Return to top

This is an insertion of a feeding tube into the stomach.

Description Return to top

This is often done through endoscopy (a long tube placed through the mouth into the stomach) by a gastroenterologist. Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used.

It may also be done surgically. While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small incision is made on the left side of the abdomen. A small, flexible, hollow tube (catheter) with a balloon or flared tip is inserted into the stomach. The stomach is stitched closed around the tube and the incision is closed.

Indications Return to top

Gastrostomy tubes are inserted for various reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently. Gastrostomy tube insertion may be recommended for:

Birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
Patients who cannot swallow correctly
Malnourished patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to maintain their nutrition
Patients who continually aspirate when eating

Risks Return to top

Risks for any anesthesia are:

Reactions to medications
Problems breathing

Risks for any surgery are:

Bleeding
Infection

Expectations after surgery Return to top

This is a relatively simple surgery with a good prognosis.

Convalescence Return to top

The stomach and abdomen will heal in 5 to 7 days. Moderate pain can be managed with medications. The patient will be fed intravenously (IV) instead of by mouth for at least 24 hours. Feedings will begin when bowel sounds are heard. Feedings will start slowly with clear liquids and gradually be increased.

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 (decompress) the stomach through the tube
How and what to feed through the gastrostomy tube
How to conceal the tube under clothing
What normal activities can be continued

Update Date: 4/29/2003

Updated by: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (11/4/2001).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.