Stomach tube insertion

Alternative names:

gastrostomy tube; gastrostomy tube insertion

Definition:

Surgery to insert a tube through the abdomen into the stomach

Description:

While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small incision is made on the left side of the abdomen. A small, flexible, hollow tube (catheter) with a balloon or flared tip is inserted into the stomach. The stomach is stitched closed around the tube and the incision is closed.

Indications:

Gastrostomy tubes are inserted for various reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently. Gastrostomy tube insertion may be recommended for:

• birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
• problems with sucking and/or swallowing