What is the gastrostomy tube?
The gastrostomy tube is a feed tube that is inserted over the abdomen or mouth into the stomach wall to feed patients who cannot eat normally. Gastomy tubes can be temporary or permanent, depending on the type of condition the patient has and how long they will not be able to eat normally. Feeding tubes are often used for children born with congenital defects that affect the mouth, esophagus or stomach. Patients with other conditions that make them unable to swallow or chew them are also candidates for the gastrostomy tube. Other patients with certain conditions may also require this type of location. Surgeons use general anesthesia for the progress so that the patient sleeps. The surgeon then inserts the hollow tube with a small cut. The area is sewn so that the tube is safe. There is a small button on the outside of the abdom. The surgeon applies anesthetic mouth and neck drugs and gives IV medicines to relax to the patient and sleep. KrKU is inserted a small tool that allows the surgeon to see the tube in the patient's stomach.
Some patients who have a gastrostomy tube can still be able to eat normally except nutrition through a feed tube. This is particularly useful in young children with gastrostomy tubes to help them learn to eat normally. If regular feeding is not performed, patients often have difficulty adapting to eating normally if the tube is sometimes permanently removed.
Many patients experience nausea after placing the tube. This usually retreats separately, which will fully recover the stomach in five to seven days. Medicines to alleviate pain and nausea from the procedure can be administered through a tube. Serious side effects from gastrostomy pipes are rare, provided that the tube properly takes care of.
Gastrostomy tube care involves flushing andBleening of the tube regularly. Doctors give their patients specific instructions on how to take care of the tube at the time of the location. Gastrostomy tubes should be flushed with water before and after serving and medicines. Although no feeding or medicines are served for a long time, the tube should be flushed at least once every eight hours.
The venting of the tube prevents excessive air and fluid from building in the stomach. The venting is usually done by connecting the drainage bag to the button on the abdomen. Sometimes the venting is carried out by syringe to pull out excess air and liquid if the patient experiences flatulence or gag.