Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy

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Gastrostomy tube placement - series

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

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

Gastrostomy feeding tube insertion is often done through the mouth, by a procedure called endoscopy. Local numbing medicines and intravenous sleep medicines are used.

This procedure can also be done surgically. While the patient is in deep sleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small cut is made on the left side of the stomach area. A small, flexible, hollow tube with a balloon or special tip is inserted into the stomach. The stomach is stitched closed around the tube and the cut is closed.

Gastrostomy feeding tubes are put in for different reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently. Gastrostomy feeding tube insertion may be recommended for:

• Babies with birth abnormalities of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (for example, esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
• Patients who cannot swallow correctly
• Patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to stay healthy
• Patients who often breath in food when eating

Review Date: 10/13/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.