Button Gastrostomy Tubes for Pediatric Patients: A Tertiary Care Center Experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Prolonged nasogastric tube feeding is a common necessity for pediatric patients with specific medical conditions.
• Feed intolerance and gastroesophageal reflux disease also necessitate alternative feeding methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of gastrostomy tube insertion and button tube replacement in pediatric patients.
• To identify the primary indications and underlying diagnoses for gastrostomy tube placement.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 34 pediatric patients who underwent gastrostomy tube insertion.
• Focus on the transition from long tubes to button gastrostomies and associated outcomes.

Main Results:

• 18 out of 34 patients were male, with neurological impairment being the most common indication (63%).
• Laparotomy with gastrostomy was the preferred surgical approach (60%).
• 50% of patients experienced no complications following button tube replacement.

Conclusions:

• Button gastrostomy is a safe and effective alternative for children needing long-term enteral nutrition.
• The procedure is particularly beneficial for those with neurological disorders and prolonged nasogastric tube dependence.
• Fewer complications are associated with button tube replacement compared to long tubes.