“Gastrostomy status” indicates an individual has a gastrostomy tube (G-tube) surgically placed to provide direct access to the stomach. This tube serves as an alternative route for delivering nutrition, hydration, and medication when oral intake is not possible or sufficient.
What Gastrostomy Status Means
A gastrostomy is a surgical procedure creating an opening (stoma) through the abdominal wall into the stomach. “Gastrostomy status” means a person has this tube inserted. It allows direct administration of liquid food, fluids, and medicines into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and esophagus.
The primary purpose of a gastrostomy tube is to ensure adequate nutrition and hydration for individuals unable to safely or sufficiently eat or drink. It can also decompress the stomach, allowing air and fluids to exit and alleviating discomfort. This method, known as enteral nutrition, uses the body’s natural digestive processes.
Why Gastrostomy Tubes Are Used
Gastrostomy tubes address medical conditions interfering with safe or adequate oral intake. Individuals with swallowing disorders (dysphagia) benefit if they cannot consume enough nutrients or risk aspiration. This can occur due to neurological conditions.
Head and neck cancers or structural abnormalities of the digestive tract can also necessitate a gastrostomy tube. For children, conditions like failure to thrive may require a G-tube for proper nutrition. Gastrostomy tubes can also manage gastrointestinal issues or drain stomach contents.
Types of Gastrostomy Tubes and Their Function
Several types of gastrostomy tubes are available, all delivering substances directly to the stomach. The Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tube is common, inserted endoscopically and held by an internal bumper and external retention disc. These tubes are used for initial placement.
Another common type is the low-profile gastrostomy tube, often called a “button.” These tubes sit close to the skin, making them less noticeable and more comfortable. They feature an inflatable balloon for securement and require an extension set for feeding or medication administration. Some G-tube models have multiple ports for different functions, such as gastric decompression or simultaneous medication delivery.
Daily Life and Care with a Gastrostomy
Living with a gastrostomy tube involves routine care to prevent complications. The skin around the stoma requires daily cleaning with mild soap and water. Gently pat the area dry after cleaning and avoid lotions or ointments unless instructed by a healthcare provider.
Tube flushing is part of daily care, performed before and after feedings and medication administration to prevent blockages. Feedings can be administered as boluses (larger, less frequent amounts) or continuously over several hours, often overnight, using a pump.
Medications administered through the tube should be in liquid form. If pills are used, they must be crushed and mixed with water. Flush the tube with water between each medication to prevent blockages. Regularly rotating the G-tube daily helps prevent it from sticking and promotes healthy tissue around the stoma.
Managing Common Practical Issues
Common issues can arise with gastrostomy tubes. Tube blockages are a concern, caused by inadequate flushing or certain medications. To prevent blockages, regular water flushes are important; medications should be in liquid form or finely crushed and dissolved. If a blockage occurs, attempt to clear it with warm water using a push-pull motion with a syringe.
Skin irritation around the stoma is common, manifesting as redness, itching, or leakage. Leakage of stomach contents can irritate the skin. Keeping the site clean and dry is important, and applying a protective barrier cream helps. Ensuring the tube is properly secured helps prevent irritation.
Accidental dislodgement requires immediate attention as the stoma can close quickly. If this happens, cover the opening with a dressing and contact a healthcare provider. For established tubes, individuals or caregivers can be trained to reinsert the tube in an emergency.