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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100125.htm

Gastrostomy tube placement - series—Indications

Indications

Overview

Gastrostomy tubes are inserted for various reasons. They may be needed temporarily or permanently.

Gastrostomy tube insertion may be recommended for:

  • Birth defects of the mouth, esophagus, or stomach (esophageal atresia or tracheal esophageal fistula)
  • Problems with sucking and/or swallowing, for example in patients debilitated by stroke or dementia

Review Date 5/29/2024

Updated by: Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery Practice Specializing in Breast Cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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