Discover How G Tube Feeding Helps Patients
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.
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 can be used temporarily as indicated, or for a long-term condition. They are generally made from polyurethane or silicone, with a diameter which is measured in French units, of which one is equal to 0.33 millimeters. Some are long and look similar to a catheter, while the "button" style consists of a set of detachable extensions. These devices may last up to 3 years, or they may need replacing sooner in some cases.
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.
Antibiotics will be administered to help prevent infection at the site of the tube's insertion. It is normal to experience some drainage at the incision site for the first two days after surgery. The area will be protected by gauze dressing that will be changed as needed. Once the incision has healed, it will be necessary to gently wash it each day using soap and water.
A special liquid diet preparation is introduced into the g-tube using a pump or a syringe, and it can be fed either continuously as a drip, or at regular intervals in larger quantities, which is known as a bolus feeding. The specific amount of calories, vitamins, minerals, and liquids the patient requires will be determined by a dietitian, who will also advise the him or her as the the most suitable ready-made or easily prepared formula.
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.
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.
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 can be used temporarily as indicated, or for a long-term condition. They are generally made from polyurethane or silicone, with a diameter which is measured in French units, of which one is equal to 0.33 millimeters. Some are long and look similar to a catheter, while the "button" style consists of a set of detachable extensions. These devices may last up to 3 years, or they may need replacing sooner in some cases.
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.
Antibiotics will be administered to help prevent infection at the site of the tube's insertion. It is normal to experience some drainage at the incision site for the first two days after surgery. The area will be protected by gauze dressing that will be changed as needed. Once the incision has healed, it will be necessary to gently wash it each day using soap and water.
A special liquid diet preparation is introduced into the g-tube using a pump or a syringe, and it can be fed either continuously as a drip, or at regular intervals in larger quantities, which is known as a bolus feeding. The specific amount of calories, vitamins, minerals, and liquids the patient requires will be determined by a dietitian, who will also advise the him or her as the the most suitable ready-made or easily prepared formula.
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.