Hello lovely Ribbot Army <3
NOTE My information may not always be entirely accurate. Always do your own research if interested in what is mentioned
This week’s topic is feeding tubes. As this is my first medical devices post I wanted to say a few things; I am not going to go into detail much on the devices other than talking about what they are and the types of them as I do not feel as if I am able to give accurate information on what it is like to have a care for any of the said medical devices. I do not have any of these currently (I only ever had a feeding tube when I was born which I do not remember) so I do not feel as if I am qualified to talk about that. With that being said I will do my best to give a basic overview on as many medical devices as I can so no one feels stared at or out of place because of something that helps them everyday. As always, if anyone has any they would like me to do feel free to DM me them <3 Tags: @tiramisuhawthorne @craftycellist @Crocheeeeet @FrogOnAMushroom
What are feeding tubes?
Feeding tubes are a medical device that allow a patient to get nutrients and or medications without having to take them orally. Feeding tubes are flexible plastic tubes that deliver liquid nutrients to your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Often feeding tubes are temporary, however a semi permanent feeding tube may be needed in prolonged usage.
Why may someone need a feeding tube?
- Severe dysphagia (difficulty chewing or swallowing)
- Severe eating disorders
- Cancer treatment
- Tumors
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Having a condition that may affect a person’s ability to absorb nutrients
- Being in a coma
- Neurological issues such as a stroke or paralysis
Types
There are two end locations for a feeding tube, the stomach and the small intestine. If the feeding tube goes through the nose it will begin with naso (short for nasal). There are three types of nasal feeding tubes:
- Nasogastric (NG)
- Nasojejunal (NJ)
- Nasodudenal (ND)
If the feeding tube is not nasal, it is surgically placed with a hole in your abdomen leading straight to either the stomach or small intestine. There are three types of non-nasal feeding tubes:
- Gastrostomy tube (G-tube)
- Jejunostomy tube (J-tubes)
- Gastrostomy-jejunostomy tube (GJ-tube)
The last option for a feeding tube is through the mouth. Feeding tubes through the mouth are intended for short term use. The two types of mouth feeding tubes are called:
- Orogastric tube
- Oroenteric tube
Diagram of feeding tubes in human body
Further reading:
-Tube Feeding (Enteral Nutrition): How It Works, Types, Placement
