Reinstituting oral feedings in children fed by gastrostomy tube

Abstract

Children with gastrostomies may return to oral feedings provided the health problem which led to its placement has resolved, stabilized, or been corrected. However, attempts to accomplish this are likely to be met with resistance from the child, including gagging, choking, biting, and vomiting. Aspiration and even fatal airway obstruction are possible. Seventeen children with gastrostomies were evaluated to determine appropriateness for oral feedings. Only 10 of this group were deemed acceptable candidates. Five were managed successfully as outpatients and four as inpatients. One patient with dysphagia aspirated, and oral feedings were discontinued. Selection criteria and management methods are described.