Patients afflicted with a disorder which affects their ability to swallow such as a stroke, can benefit from the insertion of a gastric feeding tube. This device is surgically placed in such a way that it delivers nutrition directly into the stomach through a small incision in the abdomen. G tube feeding can be used for patients of all ages, from premature infants to elderly persons with advanced dementia.
In addition to nourishing the body, these devices can also help minimize the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. It can be used alone as the sole method of feeding, or along with a regular diet as a supplement. Unconscious patients requiring enteral feeding, are often fed using this system.
The swallowing reflex and esophageal action can be impeded by various disorders which involve the nerves and muscles. Degenerative conditions such as ALS, stroke, and some cancers of the head and neck are a few examples of cases where a g-tube may be recommended. Patients are effectively prevented from suffering malnutrition due to inability to eat and drink normally.
Gastric tubes are suitable for both temporary and long-term use. Most are made from either silicone or polyurethane. The diameter is measured in French units, with one French unit being equal to 0.33 millimeters. Different styles of g-tubes are available; there are long ones which resemble a catheter, and the "button" style which uses a set of detachable extensions. If used for a longer time period, it may be necessary to change it.
Although there are several techniques which can be used to insert this device surgically, the most common is the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. This approach takes about a half-hour and can be done while the patient is sedated and given a local anesthetic. The interior of the stomach is visualized using an endoscope, which helps guide the device through the esophagus to its target site. It stays in place with a retention dome or balloon-tip, and is then directed through a small incision in the wall of the abdomen.
The patient will receive intravenous and possibly oral antibiotics as a prophylactic measure against infection. Drainage from the site for the first day or two following surgery is normal. The incision will be protected with gauze dressing, which will be changed regularly. When the area has healed, the patient will need to carefully wash the area with soap and water every day.
A dietitian will determine the appropriate amount of fluids, calories, vitamins, and minerals the patient needs and recommend a ready-to-use formula or give instructions how to prepare it. Formula can be fed continuously as a steady drip, or as a bolus feeding, in which it given in a larger amount at regular mealtimes. A pump or syringe is used to deliver the formula into the device.
The patient will learn everything they need to know about the use and care of the g-tube from a dietitian, nurse, or doctor. Mild discomfort may be experienced at the insertion site for a few days, but this can normally be kept under control with some over-the-counter pain-relievers. Contacting one's immediate caregiver is imperative if the tube comes, appears to be blocked, or has excessive drainage.
In addition to nourishing the body, these devices can also help minimize the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. It can be used alone as the sole method of feeding, or along with a regular diet as a supplement. Unconscious patients requiring enteral feeding, are often fed using this system.
The swallowing reflex and esophageal action can be impeded by various disorders which involve the nerves and muscles. Degenerative conditions such as ALS, stroke, and some cancers of the head and neck are a few examples of cases where a g-tube may be recommended. Patients are effectively prevented from suffering malnutrition due to inability to eat and drink normally.
Gastric tubes are suitable for both temporary and long-term use. Most are made from either silicone or polyurethane. The diameter is measured in French units, with one French unit being equal to 0.33 millimeters. Different styles of g-tubes are available; there are long ones which resemble a catheter, and the "button" style which uses a set of detachable extensions. If used for a longer time period, it may be necessary to change it.
Although there are several techniques which can be used to insert this device surgically, the most common is the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. This approach takes about a half-hour and can be done while the patient is sedated and given a local anesthetic. The interior of the stomach is visualized using an endoscope, which helps guide the device through the esophagus to its target site. It stays in place with a retention dome or balloon-tip, and is then directed through a small incision in the wall of the abdomen.
The patient will receive intravenous and possibly oral antibiotics as a prophylactic measure against infection. Drainage from the site for the first day or two following surgery is normal. The incision will be protected with gauze dressing, which will be changed regularly. When the area has healed, the patient will need to carefully wash the area with soap and water every day.
A dietitian will determine the appropriate amount of fluids, calories, vitamins, and minerals the patient needs and recommend a ready-to-use formula or give instructions how to prepare it. Formula can be fed continuously as a steady drip, or as a bolus feeding, in which it given in a larger amount at regular mealtimes. A pump or syringe is used to deliver the formula into the device.
The patient will learn everything they need to know about the use and care of the g-tube from a dietitian, nurse, or doctor. Mild discomfort may be experienced at the insertion site for a few days, but this can normally be kept under control with some over-the-counter pain-relievers. Contacting one's immediate caregiver is imperative if the tube comes, appears to be blocked, or has excessive drainage.
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