Gastrostomy Tube (G-tube) Pathway

A G-tube is a feeding tube that gets placed in the stomach. To place the g-tube, a provider makes a small hole (called a ‘stoma’ or ‘gastrostomy’) in the abdomen and inserts the tube. This pathway explains what to expect before, during, and after G-tube placement.

You and/or your caregiver will meet with a healthcare provider to talk about feeding and nutrition needs. If a G-tube is recommended, you will be referred to the G-tube Pediatric (Peds) Clinic. There, you will meet with a provider to learn more about G-tube placement.

You will meet with a provider to:

• Learn about G-tube options and ongoing care
• Discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure
• Ask questions and share concerns

Peer support may also be available to help you through the decision-making process.

If you decide to move forward with G-tube placement, we will schedule an appointment with the general surgeon to discuss the procedure.

Before surgery:

• An appointment with the general surgeon to further discuss the procedure.
• A detailed medical evaluation (often with a primary care provider) is needed within 30 days before surgery.
• You will meet with a Gillette registered dietician one week before surgery.

After surgery:

• You will have a follow-up appointment in the G-tube Peds clinic 1 to 3 weeks after surgery to check the incision and make sure the G-tube is working well.
• About 6 weeks after surgery, you will meet with the dietician again.
• About 3 months after surgery, you will meet with a specialized G-tube provider to change the G-tube.
• About 6 months after surgery, you will meet again with a specialized G-tube provider to change the G-tube.

The G-tube is placed during surgery.

Feeding Plan

Your care team, including a hospital provider and dietitian, will create a feeding plan that meets your nutrition needs.

Supplies for Home

A social worker and nursing staff will help arrange:

• G-tube supplies
• Feeding equipment
• A home care supplier (vendor)

Learning G-tube Care

Before you go home, your care team will teach you how to:

• Care for the G-tube
• Give feedings
• Use equipment and supplies
• Know when to call for help

Going Home

Most people go home within 24 to 48 hours after surgery if they are doing well and tolerating feedings.

Feeding Management After Discharge

Your primary care provider or complex care provider will help manage feedings after discharge.

The dietitian will recommend:

• The type of formula
• The feeding schedule
• Any nutrition changes needed

You will receive prescriptions as needed.

A nurse discharge coordinator will call 1-3 days after you go home to make sure everything is going well and answer any questions.

At this appointment, a specialized G-tube pediatric provider will:

• Check the incision site
• Help with feeding concerns and adjusting to daily G-tube care
• Address any G-tube site problems
• Answer questions

At this appointment, you will meet with a registered dietitian. This visit will include:

• A weight check
• Nutrition review
• Updates to the feeding plan, if needed

You will return to the G-tube Peds clinic. At this visit, the G-tube will be changed for the first time. The provider will check how you are doing with feedings and G-tube care.

You will return for another G-tube change.

Planning for Future G-tube Changes

Most G-tubes need to be changed every 3 months.

Many families learn to change the G-tube at home. We will teach you how and help you decide when you feel ready.

If you are not comfortable changing the G-tube at home, your healthcare team will work with you to develop a plan for future G-tube changes in the clinic until you are ready to do so at home.