What is Gastrostomy?

A gastrostomy or gastrostomy tube (also called a G-tube) is a tube that is inserted through the abdomen to deliver nutrition and medications directly to the stomach. Button type gastrostomy is most common today. Pictures of common gastrostomy buttons are shown. There are other products and devices, but these are representative of the most common ones we use.

Gastrostomy tube buttons
The pediatric surgeons at Penn State Children’s Hospital place G-tubes in infants, children and teens who need long-term supplemental nutrition.

 

Why Choose Penn State Health Children’s Hospital for Care

Ranked Among the Nation’s Best

Penn State Health Children's Hospital is proud to be one of the nation's top children's hospitals.

  • U.S. News and World Report has ranked us as one of the best children’s hospitals every year. Learn more about our rankings. We are one of only 84 children's hospitals recognized in any specialty.
  • We are one of eight hospitals in the country, and the only one in Pennsylvania, to be named as a Level 1 Children’s Surgery Center by The American College of Surgeons (ACS) for excellence in pediatric surgical care.

Support Groups

Support groups provide children and their families an opportunity to connect with others in similar situations. Learn more about the support groups offered at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.

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