Types of Feeding Tubes

January 28, 2022Tube Feeding

Feeding Tubes are a medical device that provides food if a person is unable to consume adequate nutrition through oral eating. Tube feeding can be the sole source of nutrition or used in addition to oral eating. This method may be used when a patient has difficulty swallowing, and altered mental status, or a chronic illness that makes eating a challenge.

When deciding to move forward with the feeding tube process, you and your doctor will have a conversation about which kind of feeding tube is the best fit for you or your loved one. The first aspect to consider is if this method will be for short-term, long-term, or permanent use. There are various types of feeding tubes to fit each individual’s medical condition. Sentido Health has provided information regarding the common feeding tube types, how they are placed, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type. The goal of this blog post is to help you better understand and transition to this new, healthy lifestyle.

Short-Term Feeding Tubes (1-6 Months)

Nasogastric Tube (NG tube) –

The NG tube is the second most common type of feeding tube. This short-term tube is inserted in the nose, through the esophagus, and into the stomach. They are externally secured with the specialized tape placed on the outer nose and cheek.

Advantages	No surgery is required Easy to replace in patient’s home Feeding time is shorter
Disadvantages	Visible on the outer face Younger children may be tempted to pull on the tubes Increased risk for nasal congestion and aspiration.

Nasojejunal Tube (NJ tube) –

The NJ tube is similar to the NG tube. This short-term tube is also inserted in the nose and will travel down the esophagus, but instead of stopping at the stomach, this feeding tube will continue past the stomach into the small intestine, also known as the jejunum.

Advantages	No surgery is required Beneficial to those whose stomachs don’t empty well Can reduce the risk of reflux and aspiration
Disadvantages	Visible on the outer face Younger children may be tempted to pull on the tubes Feedings are slower due to being directed to the small intestine

Long-Term Feeding Tubes

G-button / Gastrostomy Tube (G tube) –

G-tubes are the most common type of feeding tube, and the G-button is one of many G-tubes. This low-profile tube is placed directly into the stomach and lays on top of the abdominal wall. Most G-buttons are kept in place by an inflated, water-filled balloon on the inside of the abdominal wall.

Advantages	Decreased chance of being pulled or misplaced The button is easy to replace in a patient’s home The feeding tube is not visible to the public.
Disadvantages	The family must adequately clean the feeding tube Possibility of skin irritation around the stoma site Often requires surgery

Jejunostomy Tube (J tube) –

The J-tube is similar to the G-tube. This low-profile tube is also placed directly into the stomach and lays on top of the abdomen but will continue past the stomach into the small intestine, also known as the jejunum.

Advantages	Decreased chance of being pulled or misplaced Beneficial to those whose stomachs don’t empty well The feeding tube is not visible to the public
Disadvantages	Feedings are slower due to being directed to the small intestine Increased risks of clogs due to their small size Requires surgery

For more information on each of the types of feeding tubes available please visit the Oley Foundation and/or the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.

Tube Feeding Administration

Alongside the different types of feeding tubes, there are also different ways to administer a feed. Below is a list of terms related to performing a feed through a feeding tube.

Syringe / Bolus – A large (non-sharp) syringe is used to deliver formula quickly through the tube and into the stomach
Gravity – The formula is poured into a gravity feeding bag which is hung from an IV pole; gravity pulls the pre-measured amount of formula from the bag into the stomach
Pump – A stationary or portable electronic feeding pump allows a controlled flow of formula into the stomach based on a preset hourly rate.
Continuous Feed – A tube feed that is slowly administrated while using a feeding pump. It runs over longer periods of time, usually 18-24 hours, either overnight or throughout the day.

If you want to learn more about the multiple medical terms used in tube feeding, view our Tube Feeding Terminology page.

Understanding the different types of feeding tubes while familiarizing yourself with the various ways to administer a feed will help you better navigate the most appropriate options for you or your loved one. If you are new to this way of receiving nutrition and want to learn more about the how-to transition and find support, as well as the risks and benefits of tube feeding, check out Sentido’s New to Tube Feeding | What You Need to Know blog post.

Sentido Health Support

After making the decision of what feeding tube is right for you or your loved one, it is also essential to have a suitable DME company that delivers reliable medical supplies and has compassionate customer support. Sentido Health offers all this and more. If you need a medical supply company at any time during your tube feeding journey, we would love to be a part of your support system. Call or text 713.955.2123 to learn more.

If you are interested in more support and assistance during your tube feeding journey, Sentido Health offers a HIvE (Health Intervention and Education) Enteral Nutrition Program. This program specifically helps families that are new to tube feeding by having dietitians and nurses guide you step-by-step from the hospital to your home.

Resources:

https://www.feedingtubeawareness.org/tube-feeding-basics/tubetypes/

https://www.nestlehealthscience.co.uk/health-management/enteral-nutrition/tube-feeding/feeding-tube

https://www.nutritioncare.org/Guidelines_and_Clinical_Resources/Enteral_Nutrition_Resources/

https://oley.org/page/ChoosingTheRightTube