This Evidence Check examined the evidence on gastrostomy tube care in adults and children. While most evidence was of a low grade, consistent expert opinion suggests that insertion of gastrostomy tubes is overall a safe procedure with less than 5% serious complications. Commercially prepared formulas are recommended for enteral tube feeding. Initial gastrostomy tubes should not be replaced before 30 days post insertion. Patients and carers should receive pre-discharge education from the multidisciplinary team and should be monitored at 3-6 monthly intervals if stable.

Citation

Collins K, Gaffney L, Tan J, Roberts S, Nyulasi I. 

Download now