Feeding tube

Feeding tube

Feeding tube is a medical device used to provide nutrition to patients who cannot obtain nutrition by mouth, are unable to swallow safely, or need nutritional supplementation. The state of being fed by a feeding tube is called gavage, enteral feeding or tube feeding. Placement may be temporary for the treatment of acute conditions or lifelong in the case of chronic disabilities.

Types of feeding tubes

Enteral feeding tube stylet retracted

Feeding tubes can be divided into two categories: nasogastric and gastrostomy tubes.

Nasogastric tube is a tube that is passed through the nose and down through the nasopharynx and esophagus into the stomach. It is a short-term tube, with the most common one called a nasogastric tube or NG tube.

Gastrostomy tubes are inserted through a small incision in the abdomen into the stomach and are used for long-term enteral nutrition. One type is the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube which is placed endoscopically. The second type of gastrostomy tube is placed surgically and is called a surgical gastrostomy tube.

Uses

Feeding tubes are used to provide nutrition to patients who cannot eat by mouth, are unable to swallow safely, or need nutritional supplementation. They are also used to administer medications when the oral route is not possible.

Risks and complications

Complications can arise from feeding tube insertion including infection, blockage of the tube, dislodgement of the tube, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term complications may include dental problems, sinusitis, and a serious pneumonia type called aspiration pneumonia that can occur if feed enters the lungs.

See also

• Nasogastric intubation
• Gastrostomy
• Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
• Surgical gastrostomy
• Aspiration pneumonia

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