What To Expect From A Feeding Tube Insertion Procedure

How To Prepare For The Procedure

An individual can prepare for their feeding tube insertion in several ways to ensure the procedure goes well. The doctor performing the procedure will need to know if the patient is taking any anticoagulants regularly. Examples include warfarin, dipyridamole, and ticlopidine hydrochloride. Patients are often instructed to stop taking these medications a couple of days before the procedure. If necessary, their doctor will give them an alternative method for blood-thinning. 

During the week before the feeding tube insertion procedure, the patient should not take any medications containing acetylsalicylic acid or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A patient will be instructed not to eat or drink anything during the eight hours before their procedure. Patients will need to arrange transportation to and from the facility where their procedure will take place. Some patients are asked to stay overnight at a location that is thirty miles or less from the facility where their procedure is done. Some will need to stay overnight at the hospital and should pack an overnight bag with personal items.