Are Feeding Tubes Permanent?
When a feeding tube becomes necessary, many families struggle with an important question: Are feeding tubes permanent?
The answer: Feeding tubes may be needed temporarily or permanently.
There are hundreds of health conditions that require feeding tubes, and people of all ages may need them. Whether a feeding tube is a short- or long-term care solution depends on the person’s specific medical condition, progress, and circumstances.
Why Are Feeding Tubes Necessary?
Feeding tubes are life-saving tools that provide essential nutrition when a person cannot eat or swallow safely. They’re commonly used for:
Premature infants who need additional support to grow and develop.
Neurological conditions like cerebral palsy or stroke that impair swallowing.
Digestive disorders such as gastroparesis or Crohn’s disease.
Chronic illnesses where maintaining adequate nutrition is challenging.
By bypassing the usual swallowing process, feeding tubes ensure that individuals receive the calories, hydration, and medications they need to thrive.
Types of Feeding Tubes
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 specialized tape placed on the outer nose and cheek.
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.
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.
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.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube (PEG-Tube): Typically, the first type of tube recommended when needing long-term enteral feeding. A PEG tube is like a G tube except it is placed using the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy technique. An endoscope is used to place the tube through a surgical incision in the stomach and a camera attached to see and confirm the placement. It’s secured inside with a balloon or mushroom-shaped tip and outside with a bumper or disc. PEG tubes stick out of the stomach and can stay as long as they’re needed.
For more information on the basics of tube feeding, read our blog “New to Tube Feeding | What You Need to Know”
Factors Determining the Duration of Tube Feeding
The length of time a feeding tube is needed varies widely. Key factors include:
1. The Underlying Medical Condition
Temporary conditions like surgery recovery or severe illness often resolve, allowing the feeding tube to be removed. Progressive or lifelong conditions, such as advanced neurological disorders, may require permanent tube feeding.
2. Age and Development
In pediatric patients, feeding tubes may initially be required due to premature birth, developmental delays, or failure to thrive. With growth, therapy, and intervention, many children are able to transition off their feeding tubes.
3. Rehabilitation and Therapy
Speech, swallowing, and occupational therapies play a crucial role in helping individuals regain oral feeding skills. Success depends on the severity of the condition and the individual’s ability to adapt.
4. Nutritional Needs and Safety
For some, tube feeding remains necessary due to persistent swallowing difficulties or the risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway). In these cases, the tube ensures adequate nutrition without compromising safety.
Transitioning to the ‘Tubie’ Lifestyle
Adapting to tube feeding can be challenging but manageable. Families often find that, over time, the feeding tube becomes an integrated part of daily life. Tips for thriving with a feeding tube include:
Building a Routine
Establishing a schedule for feeding and equipment care can make the process more predictable. It will take time to adjust to a different lifestyle. Scheduling regular mealtimes every 3-4 hours and engaging in table conversation can aid the adjustment. You can also keep a log to stay organized and track feeding tolerance. To get started, easily download this Tube Feeding Log.
Finding Reliable Equipment
It is also important 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 are in need of a medical supply company at any time, we would love to be a part of your support system.
Seeking Education
Understanding tube feeding care, troubleshooting, and best practices empowers families to feel confident and prepared. If you are interested in more support and assistance, 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. Our clinicians will provide education and weekly check-ups to ensure an easy, comfortable transition. Here are resources and blogs that may be useful when seeking further education about tube feeding:
Accessing Support
Connecting with healthcare providers, dietitians, and support groups can ease the emotional and practical challenges. Finding the right support and connecting with others who have been through the same process is very important. Consider joining communities on social media such as Facebook groups, and utilize these 5 reliable e-resources to support you on your tube feeding journey:
Feeding Tube Awareness Foundation
Can Someone Transition Off a Feeding Tube?
For many individuals, tube feeding is a bridge to recovery. With proper medical care, rehabilitation, and nutritional support, it may be possible to transition back to oral feeding. This process often involves:
Speech or Feeding Therapy: To rebuild swallowing skills.
Gradual Introduction of Oral Feeding: Starting with small amounts and monitoring tolerance.
Regular Medical Evaluation: To assess readiness for the transition.
Each person’s journey is unique, and some may find that a combination of oral and tube feeding works best. To learn more about this process read our blog ‘Transitioning to Oral Eating’.
Supporting Families on the Journey
Whether a feeding tube is temporary or permanent, it’s essential to have access to a supportive care team. At Sentido Health, we’re here to help families navigate the challenges and celebrate the milestones of tube feeding. From equipment guidance to emotional support, you don’t have to face this journey alone.
Please note – This post does not provide professional medical advice and is intended for educational purposes only. Please contact your doctor if you have any medical questions.