When patients have difficulty swallowing food, radiologists can still make it possible for patients to receive vital nutrition. The procedure begins with the patient given a moderate amount of sedation in order to relax. The specialist, using fluroscopy, guides a small endoscope down through the espohagus. A small incision is made on the abdomen and a thin suture is guided back up through the esophagus. A thin tube is then gently guided down into the stomach and out through the abdomen. Nutrients can now be administered to the patient. The procedure is much less invasive than surgery and the patient can usually return home the same day.

For more information:

Gastrotomy