There are different types of G Tubes and different types of operations used to place them.
The operations are:
• PEG* (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) done under general anesthesia. The most common type
• RIG (Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy) done under ‘twilight sleep’. Used when breathing is an issue
• PIG (per-oral image guided gastrostomy) which is least common
The various types of tubes include:
• Danglers*, which are tubes with 12-18” of external tubing and usually an internal bolster to prevent the tube from pulling out. (which is a scary but not grave problem). These can last for years before needing replacement. Some danglers can use internal balloons instead of the solid bolster. These will eventually fail and need replacement.
• Low profile or button, which does not have the long external tube but does require an ‘extension’ tube for use. This type can have an internal bolster but more commonly use an internal ‘balloon’. Just as the above, these balloons will eventually fail.