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 can be used for a few days, to two or three years, but those which are used for longer will likely need to be replaced at some point. They are mainly made from polyurethane or silicone, with a diameter measured in French units, of which one is the equivalent of 0.33 millimeters. There are two style of g-tubes; long, catheter style, and "button" style which features multiple extensions that are detachable.
Insertion of this device may be done using a technique known as a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. A local anesthetic can be used with this latter approach, and the patient is also sedated. An endoscope is used to visualize the inside of the stomach and guide the placement of the device which is held in place with a special balloon-tip or retention dome, and then pulled out through a small incision in the abdominal wall. This procedure can be completed in about 30 minutes.
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 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 can be used for a few days, to two or three years, but those which are used for longer will likely need to be replaced at some point. They are mainly made from polyurethane or silicone, with a diameter measured in French units, of which one is the equivalent of 0.33 millimeters. There are two style of g-tubes; long, catheter style, and "button" style which features multiple extensions that are detachable.
Insertion of this device may be done using a technique known as a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. A local anesthetic can be used with this latter approach, and the patient is also sedated. An endoscope is used to visualize the inside of the stomach and guide the placement of the device which is held in place with a special balloon-tip or retention dome, and then pulled out through a small incision in the abdominal wall. This procedure can be completed in about 30 minutes.
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 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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