Adequate nutrients are essential for the growth and well-being of an individual. But there are instances where a person cannot take adequate nutrients through the mouth due to a problem with the gastrointestinal tract.
This situation usually happens to babies. Insufficient nutrients in the body might result in stunted growth and malnourishment. Medical doctors usually employ either G-tube or J-tube. These instruments play an essential role in providing nutrients to the patient.
So, what is the main difference between G tube and J tube? The former is inserted into the stomach by a small cut in the abdomen while the latter is fixed to the middle part of a small intestine. The insertion location is what helps to tell the distinction.
Keep in mind that these gadgets are used when the oral intake is reduced or stopped. Transfering the food into the gastrointestinal tract becomes a problem. These types of feeding are only tolerable by the patients.
Both J-tube and G-tube are crucial instruments that facilitate the feeding program to the patient. These tubes help to supply nutrients to reach the bodies of individuals suffering from gastrointestinal tract problems.
This article provides a comprehensive insight into the differences between J tube and G tube. Take the time to read through and informed about the functionalities of these feeding instruments. These quick tips can also help you handle your assignment and prepare for the exam with ease.
Comparison Table (J-Tube vs G-Tube)
|
Basic Terms |
J-Tube |
G-Tube |
|
Description |
A medical device inserted in the middle of the small intestines. |
A medical device inserted in the stomach through a small abdominal cut. |
|
Significance |
Provide medication and nutritional needs. |
Provide medication, nutrition, release stomach gases, and gastric drainage. |
|
Placement Location |
Can be placed endoscopically, laparoscopically, via gastric bypass procedure or Roux-en-Y. |
Can be placed endoscopically and surgically. The surgical placement can be through a small incision with the help of a laparoscope, or through a larger cut. |
|
Changing |
Cannot be replaced at home. |
Can be replaced at home. |
|
Applicability |
Ideal for patients with chronic vomiting, low gastric motility, and high risk of aspiration. |
Suitable for patients with swallowing difficulties as a result of stroke, esophageal atresia. |
|
Duration |
Feeding programs take about 16 to 20 hours. Hence considered to be slow |
The feeding process is too fast since the stomach has expandable areas. |
|
Complications |
Stomach experience leaking around the tubes causing irritation. |
This results in granulation tissue formation which is irritating, painful, and bleeding. |
|
Stands for |
Jejunostomy feeding tube. |
Gastrostomy feeding tube. |
What Is A J-Tube?
J-Tube is an abbreviation of Jejunostomy feeding tube. The medical device is inserted directly into the middle part of the small intestine via a small cut.
The jejunum is the specific region where the medical gadget is fixed. The device helps to provide medications and nutrients to the patient.
This feeding tubing is rarely used when compared to the G-tube. Research shows that it is used in a situation where G-tube is not applicable due to obstruction.
The medical device can only be changed by a professional radiologist both at home or hospital. It is used in a situation of permanent issues.
According to the study, J tube is applicable where the patient experiences chronic vomiting, low gastric motility, and a high risk of respiration.
The only negative impact of the J tube is that it tends to leak around the bottom and this is something not common in the G tube.
What Is A G-Tube?
G-Tube is an abbreviation of a Gastrostomy feeding tube. It is another medical device inserted in the stomach via a small cut of the abdomen.
The feeding tube is essential for providing the patient with medication, food, and the release of stomach gases. Remember the incision is done by a professional medical doctor.
The medical gadget is usually fixed for about 4-6 weeks to patients who need long-term nutritional needs. The task of fixing and changing the tube is super easy. It can be done at home by the gastroenterologist.
G tube is applicable for a patient with swallowing problems due to stroke, tracheoesophageal fistula, and esophageal atresia. It also helps to reduce the risk of pneumonia.
Main Differences Between J Tube and G Tube
- J tube is inserted in the middle of the small intestines while G tube in the stomach through a small abdominal cut.
- G tube is used for medication, nutrition, the release of stomach gases, and gastric drainage while the J tube specifically for medication and nutrition.
- J tubes are placed endoscopically and laparoscopically whereas G tube is placed endoscopically and surgically.
- G tube can easily be changed at home while J tube cannot be changed at home easily.
- Feeding the patient through the G tube is faster than the J tube since the stomach has expandable fundus and areas.
- J tube causes leakage around the tube which causes irritation and granulation issues while G tube results in the formation of granulation tissues which are painful, irritating, and experiences bleeding.
Similarities between J Tube and G Tube
- Both are useful for providing nutrition
- Both can be used for providing fluids
- Both are used for decompressing the stomach
- Both are used for providing medication
- Both are used for removing stomach content
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do Meds Go in G or J tube?
Well, this depends on the type of medication being used. But most medication can go through either G- or J-port. The medical will determine which medicine can go through either of the tubes.
- Are there Different Types of Feeding Tubes?
Yes. Some common types of feeding tubes are Nasogastric feeding tube (NG) Nasojejunal feeding tube (NJ) Gastrostomy tubes, e.g. percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), and radiologically inserted gastrostomy (RIG) Jejunostomy tubes
- Why Would Someone Need a Jejunostomy?
It helps in bypassing the distal small bowel or large bowel due to a bowel leak or perforation.
- How Long Does J tube Surgery Take?
The procedure takes about 30-45 minutes. It is an ideal procedure for patients with stomach discomfort. It creates a way where the air will slowly leave the stomach and the discomfort should go away.
- Is a Jejunostomy Permanent?
No. It is semi-permanent access for the patient who has had difficulty with gastroparesis, nausea, vomiting, or previous intolerance to gastric feeding.
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Conclusion
Both the J tube and G tube are essential medical devices. They help in the administration of medicines and nutrition to the patients.
However, they have some slight differences based on the usage, placement, and application among other things.
I hope the information has been useful. Kindly use the comment section and share your views about the two tubings.
More Sources and References
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Types of Feeding Tubes and Their Uses. Very Well Health