Gastrostomy

Gastrostomy is a surgical procedure used to create an opening in the abdominal wall into the stomach, allowing direct access to the stomach for the passage of food and liquid. The procedure is commonly performed on patients who have difficulty swallowing, due to disability or a medical condition. Gastrostomy is typically performed using laparoscopic surgery. This method involves making small incisions in the abdomen, through which the surgeon inserts a tube between the abdominal wall and the stomach. The tube, known as a gastrostomy tube, is then secured in place to allow the patient to receive nutrition directly into the stomach. The gastrostomy tube has two openings. The first is a feeding opening, which is used to introduce food and liquid into the stomach. The second is a drainage opening, which allows stomach contents to be removed as necessary. For some patients, a gastrostomy tube may be used to deliver medications into the stomach, or to infuse fluids directly into the bloodstream. Gastrostomy is a relatively safe procedure, with a low risk of complications. Risks include infection, bleeding, and blockage of the tube.