Providing nutrition through minimally invasive feeding tube placement

Feeding Tubes

A feeding tube (gastrostomy or gastrojejunostomy tube) is a medical device used to provide nutrition directly to the stomach when a patient is unable to eat and maintain adequate nutrition. Using a minimally invasive technique, an interventional radiologist places the feeding tube through a small incision in the abdomen under imaging guidance, allowing for effective delivery of nutrients.

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About Feeding Tubes

Feeding tubes, such as gastrostomy (G-Tube) or gastrojejunostomy (GJ-Tube) tubes, are indicated for patients who cannot consume food orally due to conditions that affect the mouth, esophagus, or stomach. These tubes provide a direct way to deliver nutrition or medication to the stomach or small intestine, helping to maintain adequate nutritional intake. Feeding tubes are often used in cases where patients have swallowing difficulties, neurological disorders, gastrointestinal obstructions, or require long-term nutritional support.

The procedure begins with inflating the stomach with air through a small tube inserted into the nose. This step pushes vital structures out of the way and creates a safe space for tube placement. The feeding tube is then inserted through a small incision in the abdominal wall using image guidance, such as X-ray, to ensure accurate placement. The tube is secured to the abdominal wall and can be used for feeding shortly after placement.

Placement of feeding tubes is typically performed under moderate sedation, ensuring patient comfort without the need for general anesthesia. This minimally invasive approach reduces recovery time and the risk of complications, allowing most patients to avoid an overnight hospital stay.

Benefits and Effectiveness of Feeding Tubes

Feeding tubes offer several benefits, including:

Improved Nutrition: Ensures patients receive the necessary nutrients, hydration, and medications when oral intake is not possible.
Minimally Invasive: Performed through a small incision under image guidance, reducing recovery time and minimizing risks.
Flexible Use: The tube can be used for both short-term and long-term feeding, depending on the patient’s needs.
Outpatient Procedure: Most patients do not require an overnight hospital stay and can return home the same day.

Risks

While feeding tube placement is generally safe, there are some risks, including:

Infection at the incision site
Minor bleeding
Dislodgement or blockage of the tube
Stomach bloating or nausea

If you experience any of these complications or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Contact Us About Feeding Tubes

If you or a loved one require a feeding tube for nutritional support, our radiology team in Southwest Florida, Cape Coral, or Fort Myers is here to help. Schedule a consultation to learn more about our minimally invasive feeding tube placement procedures.

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