Stomach tube insertion

Description:
While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), a small incision is made on the left side of the abdomen. A small, flexible, hollow tube (catheter) with a balloon or flared tip is inserted into the stomach. The stomach is stitched closed around the tube and the incision is closed.

Indications:
Gastrostomy tubes are inserted for various reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently. Gastrostomy tube insertion may be recommended for:
  • birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach ( esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula )
  • problems with sucking and/or swallowing



What to Expect After:
This is a relatively simple surgery with a good prognosis.

Convalescence:
The stomach and abdomen will heal in 5 to 7 days. Moderate pain can be managed with medications. The patient will be fed intravenously (IV) instead of by mouth for at least 24 hours. Feedings will begin when bowel sounds are heard. Feedings will start slowly with clear liquids and gradually be increased.

The patient/family will be taught:

  • how to care for the skin around the tube
  • signs and symptoms of infection
  • what to do if the tube is pulled out
  • signs and symptoms of tube blockage
  • how to empty (decompress) the stomach through the tube
  • how and what to feed through the gastrostomy tube
  • how to conceal the tube under clothing
  • what normal activities can be continued



Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:



Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.

1. Surgeon's fee: approximately $1,250
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or X-ray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.