Button Gastrostomy Tubes for Pediatric Patients: A Tertiary Care Center Experience.

RESULTS

Out of 34 patients who underwent gastrostomy tube insertion, 30 patients had their long tube replaced by a button gastrostomy. Majority were males ( = 18, 60%). Prolonged nasogastric tube feeding was the main indication of referral ( = 17, 56%) followed by feed intolerance ( = 6, 17%) and gastroesophageal reflux disease ( = 5, 16%). The main underlying diseases at referral were neurological impairment ( = 19, 63%) and metabolic disorders ( = 4, 13%). There was no significant difference between patients with neurological disorders and other diseases in terms of gender, nationality, or age. Laparotomy with gastrostomy is the main approach used ( = 18, 60%). No reported complications of button tubes in 50% of the patients ( = 15).

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged nasogastric tube feeding is the main indication of referral for gastrostomy tube insertion. Neurological disorders are the main diagnosis for the cases operated upon. Laparotomy with gastrostomy is the procedure of choice at our center. Majority of patients had no reported complications of button tube replacement. These children are likely to benefit from the button tube with fewer complications.