Gastrostomy tube ;G-tube

Feeding tube insertion - gastrostomy

A gastrostomy feeding tube insertion is the placement of a feeding tube through the skin and the stomach wall, directly into the stomach.

Gastrostomy feeding tubes are put in for different reasons. They may be needed for a short while or permanently. This procedure may be recommended for:

• Babies with birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (for example, esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
• Patients who cannot swallow correctly
• Patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to stay healthy
• Patients who often breathe in food when eating