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 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 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 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 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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