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Allison M. Greenleaf

40 Gastric and Transpyloric Tubes

A. Definitions

1. Enteral feeding is defined as providing nutrients distal

to the oral cavity.

2. A gastric tube is a tube inserted via the nose or mouth to

the stomach.

3. A transpyloric tube is a tube passed via the nose or

mouth, through the stomach and pylorus to the duodenum or jejunum.

B. Purpose

1. To provide a route for feeding (1)

2. To administer medications

3. To sample gastric or intestinal contents

4. To decompress and empty the stomach

C. Background

1. Oral feeding may be compromised in neonates due to

neurobehavioral immaturity, physiological instability,

or respiratory compromise.

2. In preterm infants, enteral feeds stimulate the secretion

of gastric hormones, influence development of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, reduce the risk of sepsis, and

decrease length of hospitalization (2).

3. Incorrect placement of gastric and transpyloric tubes

is common, with incidence ranging from 21% to 59%,

and can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality

(3–5).