gastrostomy
Pronunciation: gas-TROS-toe-mee
A surgically created opening into the stomach through the abdominal wall, typically for feeding access or decompression.
Full Definition
Gastrostomy is a surgical procedure that establishes a direct communication between the stomach and the external abdominal wall. The most common indication is for long-term enteral feeding access in patients who cannot safely swallow or have upper gastrointestinal obstruction. Gastrostomies can be created through open surgical techniques, laparoscopic methods, or percutaneous endoscopic procedures (PEG). The procedure involves securing the stomach wall to the anterior abdominal wall and creating a mature tract for tube feeding. Complications can include tube dislodgement, infection, bleeding, and inadvertent removal requiring emergency replacement.
Usage
Usage note: PEG refers specifically to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy technique.
In Context
- "Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy was performed for long-term nutritional support." — procedure note
- "The patient's gastrostomy tube became dislodged and required emergent replacement." — emergency department note