Certain types of conditions such as a stroke, can prevent a person from swallowing normally; in this case the insertion of a gastric feeding tube may be indicated. A special form of liquid nourishment is delivered directly into the stomach through this device which enters the organ through a tiny abdominal incision. An effective solution for all ages, g tube feeding is used for premature infants through to seniors with advanced dementia.
Besides providing the body with nourishment, the use of a g-tube can also reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia in many patients. This approach can be used as a sole means of feeding, or as a temporary supplement to an oral diet. Patients who are unconscious, such as those in a coma, may be fed this way.
There are many conditions which can affect the action of the esophagus and swallowing reflex. Cancers of the head and neck, degenerative neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, and the paralysis which can result from a stroke are some examples. The use of this device helps prevent malnutrition that would develop due to the inability to chew and swallow.
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.
There are several surgical approaches which may be used to insert this device into the stomach, but the simplest is the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. This procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete, and can be done using a local anesthetic. Using an endoscope, the surgeon directs the device and visualizing the inside of the stomach, chooses the best location to secure it. The device is then guided out through a small incision in the abdomen.
Patients will be given antibiotics to prevent infection at the insertion site. Drainage from the incision is normal, and can be expected in the first couple days following surgery. Gauze dressing will be used to protect the area, and changed often. After the wound has healed, patients will need to wash it gently with soap and water daily.
A dietitian will assess the patient's nutritional needs in terms of the required amount of calories, fluids, minerals, and vitamins. The patient will then be provided with the name of a ready-to-use formula or instructed as to how it can be prepared. Formula is fed into the device using either a pump or syringe, and it may be given as a bolus feeding in larger volumes at mealtimes, or as a continuous drip.
Patients will learn how to use and care for their gastric tube under the direction of a nurse, doctor, or dietitian. Some discomfort may be felt for several days when the tube is first inserted but it can be controlled with analgesics. If any problems arise such as excessive drainage, blockage, or the tube comes out, the patient must promptly contact the immediate caregiver.
Besides providing the body with nourishment, the use of a g-tube can also reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia in many patients. This approach can be used as a sole means of feeding, or as a temporary supplement to an oral diet. Patients who are unconscious, such as those in a coma, may be fed this way.
There are many conditions which can affect the action of the esophagus and swallowing reflex. Cancers of the head and neck, degenerative neuromuscular disorders such as ALS, and the paralysis which can result from a stroke are some examples. The use of this device helps prevent malnutrition that would develop due to the inability to chew and swallow.
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.
There are several surgical approaches which may be used to insert this device into the stomach, but the simplest is the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. This procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete, and can be done using a local anesthetic. Using an endoscope, the surgeon directs the device and visualizing the inside of the stomach, chooses the best location to secure it. The device is then guided out through a small incision in the abdomen.
Patients will be given antibiotics to prevent infection at the insertion site. Drainage from the incision is normal, and can be expected in the first couple days following surgery. Gauze dressing will be used to protect the area, and changed often. After the wound has healed, patients will need to wash it gently with soap and water daily.
A dietitian will assess the patient's nutritional needs in terms of the required amount of calories, fluids, minerals, and vitamins. The patient will then be provided with the name of a ready-to-use formula or instructed as to how it can be prepared. Formula is fed into the device using either a pump or syringe, and it may be given as a bolus feeding in larger volumes at mealtimes, or as a continuous drip.
Patients will learn how to use and care for their gastric tube under the direction of a nurse, doctor, or dietitian. Some discomfort may be felt for several days when the tube is first inserted but it can be controlled with analgesics. If any problems arise such as excessive drainage, blockage, or the tube comes out, the patient must promptly contact the immediate caregiver.
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