Gastrostomy info

What is gastrostomy?

A gastrostomy is a surgical opening through the abdomen into the stomach. A feeding device is inserted through this opening into the stomach. This allows your child to be fed directly into his or her stomach, bypassing the mouth and throat.

Why does my child need a gastrostomy?

People who have difficulties feeding can benefit from a gastrostomy. There are many reasons why someone might have difficulties feeding, including neurological (nervous system) disorders and gastrointestinal (digestive system) disorders. Some people also have difficulty swallowing, which increases the chance that they will breathe in food (aspirate). Your doctor will explain to you the specific reasons why your child needs a gastrostomy.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a gastrostomy?

Gastrostomies are often useful for children who need to be fed gradually, or have had problems with feeding by naso-gastric tube in the past. Some families find a gastrostomy more acceptable than a naso-gastric tube as it can be hidden under clothing. A useful feature of a gastrostomy is that there will be fewer battles over nasty-tasting medicine as some types can be given through the gastrostomy, bypassing the tastebuds altogether. A gastrostomy can be a permanent or temporary measure, as it can be removed when your child no longer needs it.

How is a gastrostomy inserted?

.A gastrostomy is inserted in a short operation under a general anaesthetic. For more information, see: What does the operation involve?

Are there any complications with having a gastrostomy?

There are some complications associated with a gastrostomy. These are explained and methods of dealing with them are included in Your guide to trouble shooting on page 13.

What types of gastrostomy are there?

There are several different types of gastrostomy device used at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital. It is important to discuss the most suitable type for your child at an early stage. The decision depends on his or her medical condition and age, any special needs your child and family have, any other operations your child needs and the surgeon's expertise. You can change your mind at a later date if the device that is chosen no longer suits your child.

These are the main types of devices used at GOSH:

Percutaneous Endoscope
Gastrostomy (PEG)
Malecot tube
Balloon device
(tube or button)
•A flexible polyurethane tube which is passed down the throat and into the stomach. The end of the tube is brought out through a small incision in the abdomen to allow access for feeding. •A flexible rubber tube (catheter) which is inserted through an incision in the abdomen. •There are two types available: a gastrostomy tube and a button or low profile device.
•Can stay in place for about 18 months •Usually a temporary device for the first six to eight weeks, and is then replaced by a balloon device (see right). • The tube can stay in place for about three months, and the button for about six months to one year
•Held in place using a disk inside the stomach •Held in place using wide, flat wings inside the stomach, but may need to be temporarily stitched to the skin • Both are held in place in the stomach using a small balloon filled with water.
•A feeding adapter may need to be attached for each feed, depending on the type of equipment used. •It must be secured with tape and the position tested before each feed •A feeding adapter may need to be attached for each feed, depending on the type of equipment used.
•Removed using an endoscope •Removed by the clinical nurse specialist. No surgery is necessary. •Removed by deflating the balloon.


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Ref: F000380 © GOSH Trust 2002
Compiled by Nutritional Nurse Specialist and Stoma Nurse Specialist