What is gastrostomy feeding tube placement?
This procedure may be done if you are unable to eat normally and need short-term or long-term feeding. You may need a gastrostomy if you cannot swallow because you have cancer of the mouth or throat or have had a stroke. Or you may have another problem with swallowing or appetite. An example of an alternative is to choose to not have a gastrostomy tube placed, recognizing the risks of not being able to eat properly and accepting the natural course of the underlying illness. You should ask your health care provider about this choice.
