Feeding tubes for infants serve to provide foods and medicines directly into an infant’s stomach until they learn to swallow. It is a tiny plastic tube that goes through the nose or mouth into the stomach. There are a few conditions when feeding tubes are used for infants. If the baby has swallowing problems or risk of aspiration into the airway, this form of enteral nutrition is preferred. It is used only for babies who show normal stomach and intestinal functions. Read on to know more about the types of feeding tubes, the indications for requirement, the contraindications, risks, and duration of use.
Why Does A Newborn Need A Feeding Tube?
Newborns who cannot feed themselves from the breast or bottle require a feeding tube. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding requires strength and coordination. The infant should be able to suck and swallow from the breast or bottle nipple. If a baby is unable to do so, a healthcare provider may recommend a feeding tube. A feeding tube is recommended if the infant has any of the following issues (1).
No weight gain Irregular patterns of weight gain Lack or weak suckling reflex Absence or weak swallowing reflex Respiratory distress
Gastrointestinal defects Electrolyte imbalance and problems
Being premature or sick may make it difficult for newborns to feed themselves. In such cases, feeding tubes are a safe and efficient way to provide nutrients and medicines to the body.
Types Of Feeding Tubes
How Is A Feeding Tube Placed?
A feeding tube is placed through the nose or mouth after measuring the estimated length from the tip of the nose to the bottom of the ear lobe and from the ear lobe to a point between the sternum (breastbone) and belly button. Usually, the placement of the feeding tube is confirmed by auscultation or X-ray. Doctors may listen over the stomach after pushing some air into the tube using a syringe. Feeding tubes may often be placed into smaller intestines for babies with severe feeding problems to provide continuous and slower feeding. Breastmilk or formula can be given to the baby using the feeding tubes.
What Are The Risks Of A Feeding Tube?
Feeding tubes are mostly safe. The insertion of feeding tube might cause some irritation or discomfort to the baby. Similarly, an incorrectly placed tube can also cause the baby to be uncomfortable. A misplaced feeding tube may increase the risk of the following problems in infants (4).
Bradycardia (slow heart rate) Breathing issues Coughing
Spitting up or vomiting Cyanosis around the mouth In rare cases, incorrect insertion may cause a puncture in the stomach
Despite correct placement, some babies may experience the following issues with feeding tubes.
Irritation of nose and mouth Stomach irritation Minor bleeding Nasal infections Stuffy nose
How Long Can A Baby Be On A Feeding Tube?
The feeding tube can be left for months in infants. However, if the tube comes out before a month, the healthcare provider may check for the tube’s condition. If the tube is soft and not damaged, it can be rinsed and placed back into the stomach. New tubes are placed if the end of the tube becomes hard or damaged. The tube feeding is continuous until the baby can feed themselves or until any interventions are done to resolve the feeding difficulties. If a baby needs feeding tubes for a longer duration due to medical conditions, pediatricians may opt to place a gastronomy tube or G-tube instead of a nasogastric or orogastric tube. This is established through small surgical procedures and kept until the baby requires it.
