Gastric feeding tube
Gastric Feeding Tube
A Gastric Feeding Tube (pronunciation: gas-trik fee-ding toob), also known as a G-tube or PEG tube, is a medical device used to provide nutrition to individuals who cannot obtain nutrition by mouth, are unable to swallow safely, or need nutritional supplementation.
Etymology
The term "Gastric" is derived from the Greek word "gaster" meaning stomach. The term "Feeding Tube" is self-explanatory, referring to the tube's function of providing nutrition.
Function
The primary function of a Gastric Feeding Tube is to provide a means of delivering nutrition, fluids, and medications directly into the stomach. This is typically done when the patient is unable to consume these substances orally.
Types
There are several types of Gastric Feeding Tubes, including:
- Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tube: This is the most common type of Gastric Feeding Tube. It is placed endoscopically and exits the abdomen.
- Nasogastric (NG) tube: This type of tube is inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach.
- Jejunostomy (J) tube: This type of tube is inserted directly into the small intestine.
Related Terms
- Enteral Nutrition: This is the practice of feeding patients through a tube placed in the nose, the stomach, or the small intestine.
- Parenteral Nutrition: This is the practice of feeding a person intravenously, bypassing the usual process of eating and digestion.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, the insertion of a Gastric Feeding Tube carries some risks. These may include infection at the insertion site, blockage or dislodgement of the tube, and complications related to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gastric feeding tube
- Wikipedia's article - Gastric feeding tube
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