 Nasojejunal (NJ) Feeding Tube Placement
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Nasojejunal feeding tube placement is a procedure in which an x-ray monitor is used to guide the placement of a soft feeding tube through the nose into the small bowel (jejunum).
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nasojejunal tube placement in the Radiology Department is performed with x-ray guidance, which usually results in fast and accurate tube placement. Interventional radiologists at Children's Hospital Boston are trained and experienced in the performance of these pediatric procedures. The radiology technologists and nurses are also trained and experienced in the special care needed for small children undergoing such procedures.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nasojejunal tube placement is safe. Some discomfort may be experienced during the initial passage of the tube through the nose, but this will be minimized as much as possible by the use of local anesthesia (numbing medication).
|
|
|
|
|
|
No preparation is necessary.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nasojejunal tube placement is performed in the Radiology Department by an interventional radiologist. After placing numbing medication on the nose, a soft catheter will be passed through the nose and guided, with the x-ray monitor, until the tip of the catheter is located in the small bowel. Sometimes when the soft tube does not pass easily through the stomach, guide wires or slightly stiffer catheters are used to try to steer through the stomach and into the small bowel.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The radiologist is able to see the stomach and small bowel on the x-ray monitor, and can tell whether or not the catheter is pointing and moving in the correct direction. Small amounts of contrast medium may be injected through the catheter to further outline the inside of the stomach and bowel.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The interventional radiologist will inform you of what was done and how the procedure went as soon as the procedure is over.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Further information can be obtained by calling Children's Interventional Radiology Office at 617-355-6579. The appropriate person will return your call and answer your questions.
|
|
|
