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Ency. home > Surgery > S > Stomach tube insertion

Stomach tube insertion   

Overview | Recovery | Risks

Alternative names:

Gastrostomy tube insertion; G-tube insertion; PEG tube insertion; Feeding tube insertion

Definition:

This is an insertion of a feeding tube into the stomach.

Description

This is often done through endoscopy (a long tube placed through the mouth into the stomach) by a gastroenterologist. Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used.

It may also be done surgically. While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small incision is made on the left side of the abdomen. A small, flexible, hollow tube (catheter) with a balloon or flared tip is inserted into the stomach. The stomach is stitched closed around the tube and the incision is closed.

Indications

Gastrostomy tubes are inserted for various reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently. Gastrostomy tube insertion may be recommended for:

  • Birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
  • Patients who cannot swallow correctly
  • Malnourished patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to maintain their nutrition
  • Patients who continually aspirate when eating

Ency. home > Surgery > S > Stomach tube insertion

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