Procedure for removal/pulling
The removal of a gastric tube is usually unproblematic, just like the insertion of a stomach tube. Here too, however, care should be taken to ensure correct preparation. Since body fluids can reach the surface of the body, gloves should be put on beforehand by the doctor.
Cloths and a kidney dish are also useful. In this way there is no major contamination in the event of vomiting. The cloths can be used to wipe the mouth.
Anaesthesia of the mouth and throat area is not necessary when removing the cloths. Therefore, the tube can be pulled easily. This should not happen too quickly.
However, if it is done too slowly, the risk of gagging increases. This usually does not lead to any injuries. Only if the tube of the probe loops, complications can occur.
These loops can make it difficult or even impossible to remove the probe. However, this problem occurs very rarely and can be easily solved. Following removal, full meals should not be started immediately. It is recommended to first test the full functionality by drinking a clear liquid. If this is successful, a dietary increase can take place.
PEG
The term PEG is used in medicine as an abbreviation for “percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy”. A PEG probe is used like a classical stomach tube to supply food, fluid and medication. However, this probe is not advanced through the mouth or nose into the stomach.
Instead, it is placed using the invasive endoscopic procedure. For this purpose, a camera is brought through the mouth into the stomach and an incision is made in the stomach wall. Through this incision it is now possible to apply a tube through the body surface.
The indications for a PEG probe are similar to those of a normal stomach tube. After operations, constrictions, various diseases or a coma, the probe should ensure nutrition. It can also be used for people with anorexia.
However, the PEG tube is used more often than the ordinary stomach tube, especially in cases of narrowing of the esophagus or mouth and throat, because it is more reliable. Overall, however, the placement of a PEG probe represents a major injury, which is why the risks of inflammation, misplacement or adhesions are increased. Eating and drinking is allowed a few hours after insertion.
Since such a probe is used for a long time, there is a relatively high risk of adhesions. To reduce this risk, the holder is loosened and the probe moved several times a week. It must also be rinsed daily to prevent blockages.
