Enteral feeding is the delivery of nutrients directly into the digestive tract via a tube. The enteral feeding tube is usually placed into the stomach, duodenum or jejunum via either the nose, mouth or the direct percutaneous route.2
Recovering from your procedure
Endoscopic feeding tube insertion is a common surgery. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that the stomach and abdomen of some patients may heal in 5 to 7 days. Some patients report moderate pain from the procedure which can sometimes be treated with medicine. In most cases, feedings will start slowly with clear liquids, and increase slowly.3
Patients and caretakers should speak with their healthcare providers for information on:
- Risks of the procedure, including bleeding and infection
- Caring for the skin around the tube
- What to do if the tube is pulled out
- Signs and symptoms of tube blockage
- Emptying the stomach through the tube (if appropriate)
- What foods to put through the tube
- Concealing the tube under clothing
- Safe activities
Regular follow-up visits
It's important to maintain all follow-up visits, even if you're feeling well. During these visits, your doctor will monitor your progress, evaluate your medications, check the status of your overall health and determine the success of your treatment.