Who Places Feeding Tubes and in What Scenario?

Enteral feeding is commonly used to provide patients with nutrition. Access via feeding tubes can be attained by multiple medical specialties through a variety of methods.

There are limited data available on direct comparisons amongst gastroenterologist, interventional radiologists and surgeons, although there appears to be similar rates of complications. Fluroscopically and surgically placed feeding tubes may have a higher technical success rate than endoscopically placed tubes. The preferred specialty for feeding tube placement varies per institution, often due to logistical matters over technique or concern for complications. Ideally, a multidisciplinary team should exist to determine which approach is best in a patient-specific manner.