jejunostomy
Pronunciation: jej-you-NOS-toe-mee
A surgically created opening between the jejunum and the abdominal wall, typically for feeding access.
Full Definition
A jejunostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a direct connection between the jejunum (middle portion of the small intestine) and the external abdominal wall. This procedure is most commonly performed to provide long-term enteral feeding access when the stomach or duodenum cannot be used safely. Jejunostomies can be created using open surgical techniques, laparoscopic methods, or percutaneous approaches. The feeding tube insertion site requires careful maintenance to prevent complications such as infection, tube dislodgement, or bowel obstruction. Unlike gastrostomy, jejunostomy feeding bypasses the stomach entirely.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as 'J-tube' in clinical settings.
In Context
- "A needle catheter jejunostomy was placed for postoperative nutrition." — operative report
- "The patient's jejunostomy tube requires daily flushing to maintain patency." — nursing care plan