Gastrogavage

Dear Ask The Doctor: Gastrogavage is being performed on my husband first with solids then the following day with liquids. Why is this test done? Is it uncomfortable?

Dear Ernest: Gastric gavage provides a means of feeding when the oral route is inaccessible. A tube may be inserted through the nose (naso-gastric) or through a surgically created hole in the person's neck, chest, stomach, or intestines. The food may be liquified and carried directly to the stomach through tubes, bypassing the mouth and throat. There are several reasons this may be carried out including: gastrointestinal diseases or surgery; hypermetabolic states (burns, sepsis, cancer, multiple trauma); some neurological disorders (stroke or coma), following head, neck or oesophageal surgery. If the tube is passed by the naso-gastric route, it may be momentarily uncomfortable but once in place, is generally well tolerated. If the tube is placed through surgery, your husband should be sedated for the procedure. The physician performing the procedure should be able to offer more information and advice.