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.
Not only is the g-tube effective as a means of providing nutrition to the body, but it also lowers the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. It can be used alone as the only form of feeding, or to supplement an oral diet. Comatose patients are often fed in this manner.
A wide range of disorders can affect the swallowing reflex and the action of the esophagus. The paralysis resulting from a stroke, degenerative illnesses such as ALS, and certain forms of cancer of the head or neck can all justify the use of this device. This enteral feeding method prevents malnutrition which would otherwise result from such conditions.
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 use and care of the gastric tube will be fully explained to the patient by a doctor, nurse, or dietitian. Initial discomfort may be experienced for a few days following insertion, but this can usually be controlled with analgesics. In the event that a problem arises such as a blockage, excessive drainage, or expulsion of the tube, the patient must immediately contact his or her primary caregiver.
Not only is the g-tube effective as a means of providing nutrition to the body, but it also lowers the incidence of aspiration pneumonia. It can be used alone as the only form of feeding, or to supplement an oral diet. Comatose patients are often fed in this manner.
A wide range of disorders can affect the swallowing reflex and the action of the esophagus. The paralysis resulting from a stroke, degenerative illnesses such as ALS, and certain forms of cancer of the head or neck can all justify the use of this device. This enteral feeding method prevents malnutrition which would otherwise result from such conditions.
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 use and care of the gastric tube will be fully explained to the patient by a doctor, nurse, or dietitian. Initial discomfort may be experienced for a few days following insertion, but this can usually be controlled with analgesics. In the event that a problem arises such as a blockage, excessive drainage, or expulsion of the tube, the patient must immediately contact his or her primary caregiver.
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