What To Expect From A Feeding Tube Insertion Procedure

Types Of Feeding Tubes

The common type of feeding tube used for long-term feeding is a gastrostomy tube. This is the tube inserted directly into the patient’s stomach through an abdominal incision. Patients get this type of feeding tube when they require tube feeding for longer than six weeks. However, there are other types of feeding tubes. Another long-term option is a jejunostomy tube, which is a feeding tube inserted through the patient’s stomach and into their small intestine. It can also be inserted directly into the patient’s small intestine through an abdominal incision. Of course, patients have short-term options as well. The most common short-term type of feeding tube is a nasogastric tube, which is inserted through the patient’s nose, down their esophagus, and into their stomach. Patients will receive it if they need tube feeding for six to eight weeks or less.