Overview
This briefing explains the purpose, types, and placement of enteral feeding tubes, including their use for individuals who cannot eat by mouth due to various medical conditions.
What is an Enteral Feeding Tube?
- An enteral feeding tube delivers liquid nutrition directly to the stomach or intestine via a soft, flexible tube.
- Tubes placed in the stomach are called gastrostomy tubes (G tubes); those ending in the small intestine are called jejunostomy tubes (J tubes).
- The external opening on the abdomen where the tube exits is referred to as a stoma.
Indications and Placement
- Conditions such as cancer, trauma, or nervous and digestive system disorders may require temporary or permanent feeding tube use.
- The stoma's location depends on the specific surgical procedure and the person's abdominal shape.
- Most stomas are round and lie flat against the body.
Digestive System Overview
- Food typically travels from the mouth to the stomach, is broken down in the small intestine, and exits the body through the colon and rectum.
- Feeding tubes bypass the normal swallowing and digestion route when necessary.
Types and Features of Feeding Tubes
- Gastrostomy tubes are anchored internally and externally to secure placement in the stomach.
- Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and PEG-J tubes use an internal mushroom-shaped anchor for securement.
- PEG tubes can be short or long, extending approximately 12 inches from the stoma.
- Skin-level gastrostomy tubes (“buttons”) lie flat and are held with internal balloons; an extension tube attaches for feeding.
- Gastrojejunal (GJ) tubes are inserted through the stomach, with the tube ending in the small intestine and feature separate ports for feeding and medication.
- Jejunostomy tubes are placed directly into the small intestine via a surgical incision and are held by a fixation device.
- Jejunal feedings are typically given continuously, with feed rate increased as tolerated.