Bill and his family want to discuss some of the things they have heard about gastrostomy tubes which worry them. Identify the myths below:
Bill and his family are now reassured about the procedure of gastrostomy.
Gastrostomy is an irreversible procedure of feeding
Myth – the tube can be removed by a trained member of staff if the patient no longer requires it.
You will need to buy special clothes that the tube can fit through
Myth – you can continue to wear your usual clothes.
A general anaesthetic is required for the procedure
Myth – adult patients are sedated but only require a local anaesthetic.
It smells bad
Myth – unless there is an infection, there should be no smell.
You can’t have a bath or go swimming
Myth – once the site is healed and the tube end is closed/clamped when you enter the water.
You can’t go abroad on holiday
Myth – speak to your doctor before you go and ensure you have sufficient supplies of feed to take with you. Make sure you have organised a supply of feed and equipment before you go. Your Dietitian can help with these arrangements.
Liquidised food can be put through the tube
Fact – but this is not routinely advised at present: only under specialised direction and in agreement with governing services.
It is a short procedure rather than a lengthy operation
Fact – sedation and local anaesthetic are required and the average time for a straightforward insertion is just 20 minutes for this procedure.
Previous gastric surgery can make placement difficult
Fact – gastrostomy may be unsuitable depending on the cause and extent of gastric surgery
A replacement tube can be inserted if it is dislodged
Fact – if a gastrostomy is dislodged, the stoma tract can close very quickly. A replacement tube should be inserted as soon as possible to maintain patency, or a further procedure may be required
Feeding regimens can be planned around around lifestyle
Fact – Pump feed can be given during the daytime, or night time, or bolus feeds can be given to mimic mealtimes.
Standardised commercial feeds are the product of choice for pump feeding
Fact – The most appropriate product will be recommended by your dietitian.
Page last reviewed: 30 Sep 2021
