LAPAROSCOPIC FEEDING TUBE (GASTROSTOMY OR JEJUNOSTOMY)
Definition: In some situations, patients suffer from certain conditions that prevent them from eating normally (ex. stomach tumors, oral cancer etc). Under these circumstances, a tube may be inserted into the stomach or small intestine to provide nutrition and alimentation. These procedures can be performed laparoscopically with minimal trauma and early recovery.
Reason for procedure:
- Provide nutritional support for patients who suffer from malnutrition
Symptoms:
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Inability to eat
- Loss of appétite
Treatment options:
- Nonsurgical option: Some individuals may receive nutrition by way of their veins or through tubes inserted via a nostril or via the mouth. Neither of these options is meant for long term use.
- Surgical option: Laparoscopic or the conventional open method are available
Risks associated with surgery
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Leakage of intestinal content at the site of insertion
- Collection of pus within the abdomen
- Injury to stomach, intestines or adjacent organs.
- Intestinal obstruction
- Kinking or twisting of the feeding tube
(This is only a partial list of potential complications)
Pre-operative preparation
- May include blood work, abdominal x-rays, and an abdominal CT scan.
Average hospital stay
- Varies amongst patients, but the average patient stays hospitalized for about 1 day.
Type of anesthesia required
- Laparoscopic surgery requires general anesthesia which blocks pain and keeps you asleep throughout the entire surgery. Open method may be performed under a milder form of anesthesia
Recovery period
Once you have undergone laparoscopic surgery, your recovery period is usually shortened when compared to conventional open surgery. Most patients can usually go home within 1 to 2 days after the procedure although every case is different.
