Gastrostomy tube

Definition

A gastrostomy tube is a medical device inserted directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall, allowing for nutritional support and medication administration in patients who cannot eat by mouth. This device is crucial for patients with swallowing difficulties, neurological disorders, or other conditions that impair normal oral intake. It provides a means for long-term enteral feeding, ensuring that individuals receive adequate nutrition and hydration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gastrostomy tubes can be placed surgically or using endoscopic techniques, such as PEG, which involves less recovery time and lower risk.
2. They are typically made of silicone or polyurethane, ensuring biocompatibility and reducing the risk of irritation or infection at the insertion site.
3. Patients with a gastrostomy tube require regular monitoring for potential complications such as infection, tube dislodgment, or blockage.
4. Feeding through a gastrostomy tube can be done continuously, intermittently, or via bolus, depending on the patient's needs and preferences.
5. Dietitians play a key role in selecting appropriate enteral formulas and determining feeding schedules for patients with gastrostomy tubes.

Review Questions

• How does a gastrostomy tube facilitate nutritional support for patients unable to eat by mouth?
  • A gastrostomy tube allows direct access to the stomach, enabling the delivery of liquid nutrition and medications without requiring oral intake. This is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions like stroke, neurological disorders, or head and neck cancers who may struggle with swallowing. By providing a reliable source of nutrition, a gastrostomy tube helps maintain the patient's overall health and prevents malnutrition.
• What are some potential complications associated with the use of a gastrostomy tube and how can they be managed?
  • Potential complications of a gastrostomy tube include infection at the insertion site, dislodgment of the tube, blockage, and gastric leakage. To manage these risks, healthcare providers emphasize proper care techniques for the insertion site, routine monitoring for any signs of infection or blockage, and patient education on how to recognize issues early. Regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals can also help in addressing complications promptly.
• Evaluate the role of dietitians in managing enteral nutrition through gastrostomy tubes and their impact on patient outcomes.
  • Dietitians play a vital role in managing enteral nutrition through gastrostomy tubes by assessing individual patient needs and selecting appropriate formulas that ensure adequate nutrient intake. They also develop tailored feeding regimens that consider factors like digestion, tolerance, and lifestyle. By optimizing nutritional support and addressing any dietary concerns, dietitians significantly enhance patient outcomes, improving recovery rates and quality of life for those relying on gastrostomy feeding.

Related terms

Enteral feeding: A method of delivering nutrition directly to the gastrointestinal tract through devices like gastrostomy tubes.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG): A minimally invasive procedure used to place a gastrostomy tube using an endoscope.

Bolus feeding: A method of enteral feeding where a specific volume of formula is administered at once, often used with gastrostomy tubes.