Animal gastrostomy refers to a surgical procedure in which a tube is inserted directly into an animal’s stomach through the abdominal wall. This procedure is commonly performed to provide nutritional support for animals that are unable to eat normally due to conditions like esophageal obstruction, severe oral or facial trauma, or neurologic disorders that impair swallowing.
The primary use of a gastrostomy tube is to bypass the mouth and esophagus, delivering nutrients directly into the stomach. It is a critical intervention when animals cannot ingest food orally but need long-term nutritional support to maintain their health. Gastrostomy is generally considered when other feeding methods, such as nasogastric or esophagostomy tubes, are not viable due to the nature of the condition or if prolonged feeding support is anticipated.
In clinical practice, gastrostomy is most often used in cases of:
1.Severe trauma or cancer in the oral cavity or esophagus.
2.Neurological conditions leading to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
3.Chronic illnesses or congenital anomalies affecting normal feeding behavior.
The gastrostomy tube can remain in place for extended periods, allowing for the administration of food, water, and medications until the animal can resume normal eating behavior. Once the underlying condition resolves or improves, the tube can be removed, and the site will typically heal on its own. This procedure is commonly used in both small animals, like dogs and cats, and in larger animals if needed for medical reasons.
FOR VETERINARY USE ONLY! NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN HUMANS!
In clinical practice, gastrostomy is most often used in cases of:
1.Severe trauma or cancer in the oral cavity or esophagus.
2.Neurological conditions leading to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
3.Chronic illnesses or congenital anomalies affecting normal feeding behavior.
The gastrostomy tube can remain in place for extended periods, allowing for the administration of food, water, and medications until the animal can resume normal eating behavior.
NOT INTENDED FOR USE ON HUMANS! NOT FDA APPROVED! FOR VETERINARY USE ONLY!