Gastric Feeding Tube Placement via Endoscopy

What is a Gastric Feeding Tube?

A gastric feeding tube is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the stomach through a small opening in the abdominal wall using an endoscope. It provides direct nutrition to patients who cannot eat normally.

Why is a Feeding Tube Needed?

•    Swallowing difficulties: Due to conditions like laryngeal or esophageal cancer, stroke, or muscular disorders.
•    Inability to consume enough food: Due to appetite loss or digestive issues.

Benefits of a Gastric Feeding Tube

•    Ensures proper nutrition by delivering essential nutrients directly to the stomach.
•    Prevents weight loss in patients unable to eat sufficiently.
•    Speeds up recovery after surgery or illness.
This procedure is a lifesaving solution for individuals who require long-term nutritional support.

How is a Feeding Tube Inserted?

1.    Preparation: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
2.    Tube Insertion: The tube is inserted through the front abdominal wall directly into the stomach under the guidance of a gastrointestinal endoscope.
3.    Fixation: The tube is secured using a fixation device on the front abdominal wall.

What are the Types of Feeding Tubes?

•    Gastrostomy Tube (G-tube): The internal end of the tube remains inside the stomach only.
•    Gastro-Jejunostomy Tube (GJ-tube): The internal end of the tube extends into the small intestine.

What are the Potential Complications?

•    Burial of the Internal End of the Tube: This can lead to infections in the abdominal wall, fever, and improper functioning of the tube.
•    Bleeding During Tube Insertion: This is especially a concern if the patient is taking blood-thinning medications.

Feeding Tube Care:

•    The tube must be cleaned after each meal to prevent blockages.
•    The tube has two openings: one for medications and another for food intake. The medical team will provide guidance to the patient’s caregivers on proper tube maintenance after placement.

When is the Feeding Tube Removed?

The feeding tube is removed once the patient can eat and drink normally.