UNDERSTANDING FEEDING TUBES

Types of Feeding Tubes

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Gastro - Tubes

A gastrostomy tube, commonly called a G-tube, is a device surgically inserted to provide direct access to the stomach for supplemental feeding, hydration, or medication. G-tubes serve various medical purposes, with the primary use being nutritional support through feedings.

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The type of gastrostomy tube a patient receives depends on their medical condition and how long the tube is needed:​

• Skin-level or "buttons"

  These low-profile tubes are the most common type and sit on top of the abdominal wall, held in place by a water-filled balloon. They are not usually noticeable under clothing and only require an extension piece when feeding or giving medication.​

• Long tubes

  These one-piece tubes are surgically placed into the stomach and held in place by a water-filled balloon or stitches. They may be necessary at first, but a more low-profile "button" tube can be placed once the area heals.​

• Mushroom gastrostomy tubes

  These latex tubes have a mushroom-shaped end that is placed into the stomach.​

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tubes

  These are a subset of G-tubes and are one-piece tubes that can be held in place by a soft disc or balloon inside the stomach wall.​

• AMT Family of G-tubes

  These traditional length G-tubes have an adjustable external bolster that minimizes skin contact and allows tissue to breathe. 

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Jejuno - Tubes

A jejunostomy tube (J-tube) is a soft, plastic tube placed through the skin of the abdomen into the midsection of the small intestine. It is used to deliver food and medicine to patients who are unable to eat by mouth until they are healthy enough to do so.

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Various types of jejunostomy tubes are placed using distinct methods. These include:

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy (PEJ): This involves direct placement using an endoscope.

• Laparoscopic or Open Surgery: Here, the tube is inserted through an incision directly into the small intestine.

• Gastric Bypass Procedure or Roux-en-Y: This method involves creating a small "limb" from a section of the jejunum and attaching it to the abdominal wall, where the J-tube is then placed.

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Jejunostomy tubes feature three external ports: gastric, jejunal, and balloon. The gastric port resides in the stomach, allowing for the venting of air, drainage of fluids, and administration of medications as necessary. Venting through this port can alleviate symptoms like nausea or vomiting caused by intestinal blockages. This can be done by connecting the G-port to wall suction or to a soft bag at home, facilitating the release of gas and fluids. You will receive instructions on how to connect the G-port to a bag before discharge. The jejunal port's tip is positioned in the small intestine for nutritional feedings, with a dietitian and nurse providing detailed guidance. The tube's placement is secured internally by a small balloon and externally by a skin disc.

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Naso - Tubes

A nasogastric tube, or NG tube, is a slender, pliable tube made of plastic used for short-term medical needs. The term "nasogastric" refers to the path from the nose to the stomach. This tube is intended to be inserted through the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach. Healthcare professionals utilize various nasogastric tubes to either administer substances into the stomach or remove them.