Gastrostomy (G) Tubes

A Gastrostomy Tube (G Tube) is a tube that goes through the skin and muscle into the stomach. The opening in the skin can be called a stoma, a site, or a tract. The tube is used for nutrition, fluids, medicine, or decompression. The G Tube is used to feed someone who is unable to eat all their nutrition by mouth. Nutrition is fed right into the stomach. Your healthcare team will tell you the reasons for needing a feeding tube.

Gastrostomy (G) Tubes
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WHAT DOES A G-TUBE LOOK LIKE?

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WHAT TYPES OF G TUBES ARE THERE?

THERE ARE 2 TYPES OF G TUBES:

LOW-PROFILE TUBE

LOW-PROFILE TUBE

This type of tube is often called a “button”. The low-profile tube is short and measured to sit close to the skin, making it less visible than a standard-length tube. Most of the tube will be inside the body and cannot be seen.

Standard-length tube

Standard-length tube

This is sometimes called a “dangler”, because it hangs out of the skin near the stomach. There is also a small plastic disc that sits close to the skin to keep the tube in place.

The G Tube has 2 ports:

  • The gastric (G) port goes right into the stomach for nutrition, fluids, medicine or decompression. Sometimes there is extra air in the stomach and the G port can help get rid of the extra air. This is called decompression. Talk to your healthcare team about how and when to do this.  There is a cover on the port which should be kept closed when it is not being used. 
  • The balloon port is used to inflate the balloon to keep the tube in place. A small water-filled balloon holds the G Tube in place inside the stomach. The water needs to be checked once a week. To do this, a syringe is attached to the balloon port on the device. This is then used to remove the water before replacing it. You will be taught how to do this before you go home. 

All feeding tubes have either a balloon or small bumper on the end, which sits inside the stomach and helps keep the tube in place. If your tube has a balloon, then it is inflated with water once it is inside the stomach. Sometimes, after a tube is placed for the first time, stitches might be used to keep it secure while the body is healing. Your healthcare team will teach you how to use the tube.

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HOW IS A G TUBE PLACED?

The tube is placed into the stomach with an operation. If you have a PEG Tube, then the opening or stoma can be used to place the G Tube. To learn more about different operations, visit the G Tube procedure pageor thePEG procedure page.

What supplies are needed?

You will be given all the supplies and nutrition for feedings you need at home. Supplies will be sent to you routinely and you will be told how to order these. A case worker will help get these supplies delivered to your home. 

Find a place to store the supplies where they can be kept safe, clean and easy to access. You can dispose of used supplies in the household garbage.

Always follow the instructions for using your supplies to avoid problems like infections. Infections can cause diarrhea and vomiting. 

Some of the supplies may include:

  • Extension sets
  • Syringes
  • Feeding pump

These supplies will attach to the feeding tube. You can feed right into the standard-length G Tube. When using a low-profile G Tube, an extension set needs to be attached to the feeding port to give nutrition, fluids, or medicine. 

There are 2 types of extension sets:

Continuous extension set

Continuous extension set

This is attached to the G Tube for continuous feeding over a few hours, usually using a pump. Continuous feeding can be done during the daytime or overnight.

Bolus extension set

Bolus extension set

This is attached to the G Tube when a “bolus” feeding is needed. A bolus feeding is used when a certain amount of nutrition is given through the tube over a short period of time, usually about 20 minutes. It travels down the tube using gravity and a syringe. The bolus extension set can also be used to give medicine.

There are many formulas or feeding choices for tube feeding. Your healthcare team will choose what is best for you. A dietitian will work with you to make a feeding plan before you leave the hospital. Your healthcare team should help you find a feeding schedule that fits best into your family routine. This can change as your needs change.  

Sometimes you may need extra water to meet daily fluid needs. Just like people drink something along with their meal, you will need some extra water with your nutrition. This is called “extra free water.” Your healthcare team or dietitian will tell you how much extra free water you need. Extra water is often given after medicines, or in between or after feedings. 

You will be taught exactly what to do before going home. You will also be given information to take home in case you forget anything. Your healthcare team should tell you who to contact with any questions or concerns.

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When does the tube get changed?

When the time comes to change the tube, it can be replaced by the same type of tube or a different type. This can often be done at home by deflating the balloon and taking the tube out. The new tube is inserted through the same opening, also called a stoma, and the balloon gets inflated. Ask your healthcare team how to do this.

Feeding Supply Finder

Answer a few questions to find the perfect supplies for your needs.

Step 1: Tube Type

What type of feeding tube is being used?

Feeding tubes are named based on where nutrition goes in the body. This helps us recommend supplies that fit and function correctly.
G-Tube → stomach
J-Tube → small intestine
GJ-Tube → both
If you're not sure, that's okay — we'll help verify before shipping.

Step 2: Tube Style

What style of tube is being used?

Low-profile tubes (buttons) sit flush with the skin and are common for active individuals.
Standard-length tubes extend further from the body.
This affects which supplies and accessories you'll need.

Step 3: Feeding Method

How is feeding usually given?

How feeding is given determines which extension sets and supplies are appropriate.
Bolus feeding → syringe or gravity
Continuous feeding → feeding pump
Both → combination of methods

Step 4: Connector Type

What type of connector does the tube have?

The connector is how supplies attach to the tube. Choosing the right connector prevents leaks and fit issues.
ENFit → newer standard connector (most common)
Legacy → older connector types
Most newer tubes use ENFit connectors for safety.

Step 5: Tube Brand

Do you know the tube brand?

Knowing the brand helps us match the exact supplies you need.
Common brands include MIC-KEY, MIC, and AMT.

Step 6: Tube Size (French Size / Fr)

Do you know the tube size (French size or "Fr")?

Tube size must match exactly. It's usually printed on the tube or packaging.
If the size is unknown, we'll help verify before anything ships.

Step 7: Stoma Length

Do you know the stoma length (tract length) in cm?

Stoma length is the distance from the skin surface to the stomach/intestine.
This is critical for low-profile tubes to fit properly.
Common lengths: 0.8cm, 1.0cm, 1.2cm, 1.5cm

Step 8: Supplies Needed

“You can choose more than one.”

What supplies do you need regularly? (Select all that apply)

Step 9: Replacement Frequency

“Replacement timing depends on your care plan and the product type.”

How often are these supplies usually replaced?

Many feeding supplies are designed for routine replacement for hygiene and safety.
Automatic delivery helps prevent running out.

Your Recommended Supplies

We'll verify everything before shipping. Contact support if needed.

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Options: Upload prescription | Email: wecare@newleafhomemedical.com | Fax: 214-396-5080