What are two reasons for performing a gastrostomy?

Gastrostomy is done because a patient temporarily or permanently needs to be fed directly through a tube in the stomach.

This procedure can be done for:

1.Babies with birth abnormalities of the mouth, esophagus or stomach[e.g tracheal esophageal fistula]

2.Patients who cannot swallow correctly.

3.Patients who cannot take enough food by mouth to stay healthy.

4.Patients who often breath in food when eating.