What is Surgical Nutrition?

When a person is unable or unwilling to safely consume food sufficient to support good health, a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tube, also known as a feeding tube, may be surgically placed within the stomach for direct nutritional support. A PEG tube bypasses the mouth and esophagus, instead feeding food directly into the stomach via a small incision in the abdomen.

Our general surgery team is highly trained and experienced in surgical nutritional support and skilled in the administration and management of this relatively simple procedure.

Surgical Nutrition FAQs

Did you know that feeding tubes are designed to last for long-term use?

While some patients only require surgical nutrition for a short period of time, others require long-term use of a PEG tube. In most cases, a feeding tube will last for many months and in some cases, a year or more, before needing to be replaced.

Which patients may benefit from surgical nutritional support?

There are many reasons a patient might benefit from feeding tube placement. Most commonly, surgical nutrition is provided to individuals who are unable or unwilling to consume enough food by mouth to maintain adequate health. Other people who might require a feeding tube include those who are unable to swallow correctly or who breathe in (aspirate) their food when chewing and swallowing. Feeding tubes are also sometimes placed into the stomachs of babies who are born with certain birth defects, including abnormalities affecting the mouth, esophagus and stomach.

What should I expect during a surgical nutrition procedure?

Most PEG tubes can be surgically placed in under an hour. Patients are typically sedated and given a local anesthetic to provide comfort during the procedure. Using a lighted camera placed through the mouth and into the stomach (endoscope), the surgeon will identify the PEG tube insertion site. A small incision will be made in the abdomen to make room for the feeding tube.

What happens after the placement of a feeding tube?

Following the procedure, the feeding tube is taped to the abdomen and the incision site is dressed with a gauze dressing. Patients or their caregivers are given instructions for caring for the tube and the insertion site. It is normal to experience some soreness or discomfort immediately following the procedure, although this typically subsides within a few days.

Surgical Nutrition Principle or Guidelines

Nutrition is a key component of your surgery recovery. Food nourishes you and helps your body heal from the stress of surgery. There are many areas to consider with nutrition such as protein needs, inflammation, vitamins and minerals and constipation. Here is few basic guidelines:

Protein

Protein is especially important after surgery. It helps repair damaged body tissues, form antibodies to fight infections, and synthesize collagen which is necessary for scar formation.

Vitamins and Minerals

Many vitamins and minerals can also help reduce inflammation, as well as accelerate wound healing after surgery.

Constipation

It is important to drink plenty of water and eat fiber after surgery to prevent constipation. Try to eat whole foods that are higher in fiber (an orange instead of orange juice), and limit those that are refined or include additives like salt, fat and sugar.

Lack of Appetite

Sometimes it is difficult to eat after surgery because of a lack of appetite. This typically passes a few days after surgery, but it is important to continue eating nutritious foods during this part of your recovery. Failing to eat enough after surgery can delay the healing process.