gastrostomy tube
Pronunciation: gas-TROS-to-mee toob
Feeding tube surgically placed through the abdominal wall into the stomach for long-term nutritional support in children with feeding difficulties.
Full Definition
A gastrostomy tube (G-tube) is a feeding device that provides direct access to the stomach through the abdominal wall. It is surgically placed when children require long-term enteral nutrition due to conditions such as severe gastroesophageal reflux, neurological impairment affecting swallowing, or failure to thrive. The procedure can be performed using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) or open surgical techniques. G-tubes require regular maintenance and monitoring for complications such as tube displacement, granulation tissue formation, or infection at the stoma site.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as G-tube in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "A gastrostomy tube was placed due to persistent aspiration with oral feeds." — Surgical procedure note
- "The G-tube site showed signs of granulation tissue requiring silver nitrate treatment." — Post-operative follow-up