Definition
In medicine, a gastric tube is a device used for feeding and supplying the patient with fluid. A gastric tube can be needed in two different situations. If the patient’s own nutrition is inadequate, the use of a stomach tube may be necessary.
In addition, the use of a gastric tube may be necessary in the context of damage caused by illness or surgery. To place the probe, a platic tube is inserted through the nose or mouth over the throat and the esophagus into the stomach, so that the chyme reaches its destination safely. A gastric tube is usually used to administer a low-viscosity chyme that contains a large number of calories. It should not be used for longer than two weeks.
Why do you need such a thing?
The indications for the position of a stomach tube are more numerous than one might think. Apart from minor reasons, two large areas can be defined where a gastric tube is used. In general, however, a stomach tube is used to supply food, fluid and medication.
On the one hand, its use becomes necessary when the person concerned is no longer able to feed himself or herself. This can be the case, for example, in a coma, old age and various diseases such as swallowing disorders. On the other hand, stomach probes are used if the feeding routes are displaced due to damage or an operation.
After an operation in the area of the mouth, it may be impossible to open the mouth. Therefore, it is the simplest and least harmful method for an otherwise healthy person. A stomach tube can also be used as a splint for the chyme during operations in the area of the esophagus or in the vicinity of it.
This offers a higher degree of safety in case of injuries to the esophagus. Anorexia is an eating disorder. In the foreground here is weight loss through refusal to eat.
On the other hand, bulimia, where vomiting often occurs after eating, is a common problem. This is also due to a psychological disorder or internal compulsion, environmental or family causes and can be difficult to treat in some people. In order to be able to treat or minimize the occurring symptoms with their associated risks, in very severe and life-threatening cases artificial feeding by means of a stomach tube is resorted to. This ensures the best possible nutrition according to the circumstances. However, this measure must not be taken against the patient’s will.
