How long do G tubes last?
How often does the tube need replacing? Gastrostomy tubes vary in the length of time to replacement. Most original gastrostomy tubes last up to 12 months and balloon tubes last up to 6 months.
Is G tube placement major surgery?
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement procedure is not a major surgery. It does not involve opening the abdomen. You will be able to go home the same day or the next day after the surgery unless you are admitted for some other reasons.
Are g tubes forever?
A child may not need a G-tube forever. Doctors may decide that the child’s body doesn’t need a G-tube anymore.
What do you do for an infected g tube?
Treatment of infection
- A topical antibiotic such as fusidic acid. This is a cream that you will apply directly to the stoma.
- An oral antibiotic such as cephalexin. This is a medication that your child will take by mouth or through the tube.
Is G tube surgery painful?
Although your child may feel slight discomfort, the PEG is not painful. Doctors guide a gastroscope (a type of endoscope, which is a long, thin tube with a light and camera at the end) through the mouth, down the throat, and into the stomach.
Why does my G tube smell?
Redness and irritation from leaks might look like infection, especially when stomach contents get mixed with bacteria on the skin. If this happens, you might notice a colored discharge that smells bad. You can see and smell this fluid on your child’s skin, dressings, and clothes.
Is a feeding tube painful?
A feeding tube can be uncomfortable and even painful sometimes. You’ll need to adjust your sleeping position and make extra time to clean and maintain your tube and to handle any complications.
Can babies with G tubes go swimming?
Yes, Almost All Kids with Feeding Tubes Can Swim! Most children with G-tubes, GJ-tubes, and J-tubes are also able to swim and splash in the water without too many restrictions. There is one exception to this rule: children with brand new stomas that are less than two months old should not swim.
How long are you in the hospital after G-tube surgery?
Most children will stay in the hospital for 1-3 days after a G-tube placement. How long your child stays depends on your child’s medical condition. It also depends on how much you’ll need to learn to care for your child’s newly placed G-tube. We encourage you to stay with your child during their hospitalization.