Why Does the Tube Need To Be Removed?

Your child’s provider has decided that the tube is no longer needed.

How Is the Tube Removed?

1. Water is removed from the tube. This will deflate the balloon.
2. Then the tube will be removed.
3. There will be an opening in the stomach where the tube was removed.
4. A pressure dressing will be put over this tube site. The pressure dressing is a tight and clean bandage that covers the tube site. It soaks up drainage from the site and helps it to heal.

When Will the Tube Site Close?

Most tube sites close in a few days.  Sometimes it may take a few weeks. If the tube site does not close on its own, your child may need surgery. The General Surgery team will talk with you.

When Should the Pressure Dressing Be Changed?

The best time to change the dressing is before a meal when the stomach is empty. The pressure dressing needs to be changed at least once a day or any time it is soaked with drainage.

How Do You Change the Pressure Dressing?

Collect your supplies:

• Two pieces of 3 x 3 gauze.
• Silk or foam tape.

Steps to change the dressing:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Clean the tube site with soap and water. It is okay for your child to take a bath or shower.
3. Air dry or gently pat the site with a towel to dry.
4. Take a piece of gauze. Fold it in half. Then fold it in half again.  This should make a square shape.
5. Put this gauze over the site.
6. Take a second piece of gauze. Fold it in half.  This should make a rectangle shape.
7. Put this second gauze on top of the first gauze.
8. Put the tape firmly over the gauze onto the skin. Make sure all the edges of the dressing are covered.

Care of Your Child After Surgery:

After the tube is removed, your child may keep doing most of their daily activities. Quiet activity is best for 1 day after tube removal. Your child may also take a bath or shower.

• Do not swim in ponds or lakes until the site is completely healed and no longer leaking.
• Do not sit in hot tubs or swim in pools for at least 2 weeks after tube removal.

How Do You Keep the Skin Around the Tube Site Healthy?

• Clean the skin with soap and water each day.
• Dry the skin well before putting the pressure dressing on.
• Use a diaper rash cream, like Desitin®, to protect the skin from drainage.

When To Follow up With the General Surgery Team?

Your child needs to follow up with the General Surgery team about 2 to 3 weeks after tube removal. To schedule this visit call Central Scheduling at 1-800-607-5280. You may cancel this visit if your child’s tube site has closed, and you don’t have any further questions or concerns.