What is a G-tube?
A gastrostomy tube, or G-tube, is placed in the surgical opening to help with feeding or venting of stomach gas. There are 2 main types of G-tubes that are placed into the stomach:
A G-tube that is placed in the stomach and has a tube that remains on the outside.
A skin-level G-tube button. It has a cap that opens and closes and a tube that is attached just for feedings. This type of tube may not be placed right away, but may be an option later.
A G-tube that is placed in the stomach and has a tube that remains on the outside.
A skin-level G-tube button. It has a cap that opens and closes and a tube that is attached just for feedings. This type of tube may not be placed right away, but may be an option later.
Why Would a Child Need a G-Tube?
A number of conditions might cause a child to need a G-tube. Some of the most common include:
congenital (present from birth) abnormalities of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, or intestines
sucking and swallowing disorders, which are often related to prematurity, brain injury, developmental delay, or certain neuromuscular conditions, like severe cerebral palsy
failure to thrive, which is a general diagnosis that refers to a child's inability to gain weight and grow appropriately. Poor growth can be the result of an underlying medical condition such as cystic fibrosis, certain heart defects, cancer, intestinal problems, severe food allergies, or metabolic disorders, among other things.
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