GASTROSTOMY meaning and definition

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What Does Gastrostomy Mean? A Guide to Understanding this Surgical Procedure

Gastrostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the stomach, allowing for direct access to the gastrointestinal tract. This procedure is also known as a gastrojejunostomy or stomach tube insertion. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of gastrostomy, its purpose, and what patients can expect during and after the surgery.

What does Gastrostomy mean?

The term "gastro-" refers to the stomach, while "-otomy" means an incision or opening. Therefore, gastrostomy literally means "an opening in the stomach". This surgical procedure is used to create a temporary or permanent opening in the stomach that allows for feeding or drainage of fluids.

Purpose of Gastrostomy

Gastrostomy is performed for various reasons, including:

1. Nutrition: For patients who have difficulty eating or swallowing due to conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, or esophageal cancer.
2. Drainage: To relieve pressure and prevent complications in patients with bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or gastrointestinal perforation.
3. Monitoring: To monitor the stomach's contents, such as blood pH levels or gastric secretions.

Procedure

The gastrostomy procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure their comfort and safety during the procedure.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the abdomen, usually just below the belly button.
3. Stomach opening: The surgeon creates a small opening in the stomach using a specialized instrument called a trocar.
4. Tube insertion: A feeding tube or drainage tube is inserted through the opening and guided into the stomach.

Aftercare

Following the procedure, patients can expect:

1. Recovery time: 1-2 weeks for most patients to recover from the surgery.
2. Care of the site: The surgical site should be kept clean and dry to promote healing.
3. Tube management: Patients will need to learn how to manage their feeding or drainage tube, including flushing, cleaning, and replacing it as needed.

Risks and Complications

While gastrostomy is generally a safe procedure, potential risks and complications include:

1. Infection
2. Perforation (hole in the stomach)
3. Bowel obstruction
4. Tube displacement or blockage
5. Delayed healing

Conclusion

Gastrostomy is a surgical procedure that provides temporary or permanent access to the stomach for feeding, drainage, or monitoring purposes. While it carries some risks and complications, the benefits of this procedure can significantly improve patients' quality of life. It is essential for patients to understand the meaning of gastrostomy and what they can expect during and after the surgery to ensure a smooth recovery.

Sources:

1. American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)
2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

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