SERVICES
Paediatric gastrostomy tubes

OVERVIEW

Paediatric gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are medical devices used to provide nutrition and medication to children who are unable to swallow or take food orally due to various medical conditions. G-tubes are surgically placed into the stomach through a small incision in the abdomen and can be used for both short-term and long-term feeding. The device allows for easy administration of formula or liquid diets and can be an essential tool for managing the nutritional needs of children with complex medical conditions such as cerebral palsy, cancer, or severe reflux. Proper care and maintenance of G-tubes are critical to prevent infections and ensure the device's longevity.

When are gastrostomy tubes indicated?

Paediatric gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are indicated for children who are unable to consume enough nutrition orally to meet their daily nutritional requirements. This can be due to a variety of medical conditions that affect the child's ability to swallow, such as:

Neurological disorders like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida
Gastrointestinal disorders like severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), severe vomiting, or dysphagia
Congenital abnormalities like oesophageal atresia or tracheoesophageal fistula
Cancer or other medical conditions that require long-term use of feeding tubes

G-tubes are also indicated for children who require medication that cannot be taken orally, as they allow for the delivery of medication directly to the stomach. The decision to use a G-tube is made by the child's healthcare team after considering the child's medical condition, nutritional status, and ability to tolerate feeding through the tube.

How are gastrostomy tubes inserted?

Paediatric gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are typically inserted through a surgical procedure called a gastrostomy. The following steps are involved in the procedure, which is performed under general anaesthesia:

The child's abdomen is cleaned and sterilised, and the surgical team places a sterile drape over the area. A minor surgical cut is made in the abdomen, and a tube is inserted through the opening into the stomach. The tube is typically inserted using either a technique called percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), which involves using an endoscope to guide the tube into the stomach or laparoscopically.

The tube is secured in place with sutures, and a dressing is placed over the incision.

The child is then monitored closely for any complications, such as bleeding, infection, or displacement of the tube.

After the procedure, the child's healthcare team will provide instructions on how to care for the G-tube, including how to feed the child through the tube, how to clean the site to prevent infection, and how to recognise and manage any complications that may arise.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Dr Mangray, the founder of KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service, and his associates, Dr Ngobese, Dr Govender and Dr Dube-Zvirikuzhe, have a well-established reputation for caring for children right until late adolescence.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

1What are the different types of G-tubes available for children?

There are several types of G-tubes available for children, including peg tubes, button tubes, and low-profile tubes. Your child's healthcare team will determine the most appropriate type of G-tube based on their medical needs and lifestyle.

2How long do G-tubes last in children?

G-tubes can last for several months to years, depending on the child's medical condition and nutritional needs. They may need to be replaced or adjusted periodically to ensure they remain functional.

3Can children swim or bathe with a G-tube?

Yes, children with G-tubes can swim and bathe. However, it is important to keep the site dry and covered with a waterproof dressing to prevent infection.