Gastric tube after stroke | Gastric tube

Gastric tube after stroke

After suffering a stroke, the application of a gastric tube may be necessary. The reason for this is that the motor and mental abilities of the affected person may be severely restricted. Depending on the area of the brain affected, it may even become impossible to eat.

A disturbed diet can have a strong negative influence on the healing process. Persons who are in a coma after suffering a stroke require a stomach tube anyway. The supply of medication alone requires this.

Furthermore, most people who suffer a stroke also belong to an older age group. Since the supply of food and fluids can be generally difficult in this age group, a stroke can make it impossible. The use of a stomach tube is also indicated here.

In these people and in people who suffer a stroke at a younger age, a stomach tube can be used to bridge the time until they are self-sufficient. As soon as it becomes apparent that the tube will have to be used for a longer period, consideration should be given to using a PEG tube. This is also more reliable in the long term for people with a stroke.

How long must / can a stomach tube be left in place?

The duration of the possible use of a gastric tube depends on whether a conventional gastric tube or a PEG probe was used. While conventional stomach tubes are designed for short- to medium-term use, the use of a PEG tube can ensure nutrition over a longer period of time. Conventional probes should be used for a maximum of two weeks.

After that a change must be made. In case of permanent complaints such as gagging due to the tube in the mouth and throat area, a change may be necessary earlier. In contrast, with appropriate care, a PEG probe can even be used permanently for several years.

However, it should be noted that the necessary measures are taken if complications occur. This would be for example the disinfection of the wound edges. If there is still no improvement, the stomach tube should be changed. All stomach tubes should be left in place or changed in the meantime until the patient can be reliably supplied with food, fluids and medication on his own.