What types of Gastrostomy tubes are available?
There are currently two manufactured skin-level gastrostomy devices on the market. They lie even with the opening in the abdominal wall. An extension tube is screwed into place for feedings: The Button has a top which flips open, allowing a temporary feeding tube to be connected. The top then closes after the connector is removed after feeding. It lies close to the stomach and causes less difficulty than the standard surgical tubing when handling, moving, and dressing the child. The MIC-KEY which features an internal balloon, making it possible to fit a child of any size. The device can be replaced at home. The MIC-KEY allows the feeding tubes to be locked in place during the feeding. It also allows for trapped gas and air in the stomach to be vented. How is the tube placed? The tube is pulled down through the esophagus and stabbed up through the stomach and abdominal wall rather than making an incision. A small bumper on the inside and outside act as a vice to hold the tissues togethe
