jejunostooman

A jejunostomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening into the jejunum, the middle section of the small intestine. This opening, known as a stoma, allows for the insertion of a feeding tube. A jejunostomy tube is used to provide nutrition, hydration, and medication directly into the jejunum, bypassing the stomach and duodenum. This method of feeding is often referred to as jejunostomy tube feeding or J-tube feeding.

The procedure is typically performed when a person is unable to eat or drink normally due to various medical conditions. These conditions can include severe swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), gastrointestinal obstructions, inflammatory bowel disease, or after certain surgeries affecting the upper digestive tract. It is also used for long-term enteral nutrition when other feeding routes are not feasible or safe.

A jejunostomy can be created surgically or endoscopically. Surgical jejunostomy involves an open or laparoscopic abdominal incision. Endoscopic jejunostomy is a less invasive procedure that uses an endoscope to guide the tube into place. The jejunostomy tube is usually inserted through the abdominal wall and directly into the jejunum.

Complications associated with jejunostomy can include infection at the stoma site, dislodgement or blockage of the feeding tube, leakage of digestive fluids, and nutritional deficiencies if not managed properly. Regular care of the stoma site and proper use of the feeding tube are essential to prevent complications and ensure effective nutrition delivery.