Gastrostomy tube Gtube or J tube removal (1920)

for Gastrostomy tubes and Jejunostomy tubes

 Why does the tube need to be removed?

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

How is the tube removed?

The tube will be removed.  A pressure dressing will be put over the tube site.  This is the opening in the belly where the tube was.

What is a pressure dressing?

This is a tight and clean bandage that covers the tube site.  It soaks up drainage from the site and helps it to heal.  Most sites close in a few days.  Sometimes it may take a few weeks.  If the site does not close on its own, your child may need surgery.  Your child’s doctor will talk to you about surgery if the site does not close on its own.

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.
• any time it is soaked with drainage.

How do I change the dressing?

1. Get your supplies.
Two pieces of 3 x 3 gauze.
Silk or foam tape

2. Wash your hands with soap and water.

3. Clean the site with soap and water.  It is okay for your child to take a bath or shower.

4. Air dry or gently pat the site with a towel to dry.

5. Fold first piece of gauze.
Fold in half.
Fold in half again.  This is now a square shape.

6. Put the first folded piece of gauze over the site.

7. Fold the second piece of gauze.
Fold in half.  This is now a rectangle shape.

8. Put the second piece of folded gauze on top of the first gauze.

9. Put the tape firmly over the gauze onto the skin.  Make sure all the edges of the dressing are covered.

Special Information

To help control drainage from the site after the tube is removed:

• Your child should not have food or drinks for at least three hours. 
• Then your child should have smaller meals or amounts of formula for the next few days. 
• Quiet activity is best for one day. 

To help keep skin around the site healthy:

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

Follow up after the tube was removed

Make an appointment in Surgery Clinic for 2 to 3 weeks from now.  This is to talk with the surgeon to decide if surgery is needed.  It may be needed if the site is not closing or if it is draining.  If your child’s site closes before this appointment, you can cancel.

Central Scheduling: 800-607-5280