Definition

A gastrostomy makes a new path for food to enter the body. A tube is placed through the belly and into the stomach. It may only be needed until other areas heal, or it may be lasting. Gastrostomy can be done as an:

• Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy(PEG)—(more common)—uses a scope and a small incision in the belly
• Open procedure—a large incision is made in the belly

Reasons for Procedure

A gastrostomy is needed if food cannot pass through the mouth and throat. It may be needed to feed a person that has:

• A hard time swallowing
• Severe eating problems
• No ability to eat

It may also be used to drain a buildup of acid or fluids. This may be needed with blockages such as those caused by a cancer growth.

Gastric Tube Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Possible Complications

Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:

• Excess bleeding
• Problems from anesthesia
• Infection
• Aspiration—fluid, food, or foreign material gets sucked into the airways
• Injury to nearby structures or organs
• The tube moves or does not work properly
• Loose stools (poop)

Things that may raise the risk of problems are:

• Long-term diseases such as diabetes or obesity
• Smoking, drinking alcohol, or drug abuse
• Past surgeries in the belly area

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you are not getting better or any of these happen:

• Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, excess bleeding, or discharge from the incision site
• The tube moves out of place, is clogged, or does not work well.
• Leaking of feedings around the tube site
• Cough, problems breathing, or chest pain
• Nausea or vomiting, or swelling in the belly
• Problems passing gas or stool (poop)
• Severe belly pain

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.