Which is another common gastrostomy site complication, and how can it be prevented?

Which is another common gastrostomy site complication, and how can it be prevented?

• A. Peristomal infection
• B. Leakage around gastrostomy site
• C. Tube occlusion
• D. Stomal stenosis

Answer: (D)

Stomal stenosis is a late gastrostomy site complication where scar tissue narrows the stoma, making it hard to pass the tube and potentially impeding feeding. It tends to arise after the tract has formed and progresses with chronic irritation or inflammation that drives fibrosis. Prevention focuses on keeping the stoma and tract healthy and patent. Avoid trauma to the stoma by not overtightening the external bumper and by securing the tube to reduce traction. Use an appropriately sized tube to minimize chronic irritation, and ensure the tract has time to mature before full use. Maintain good skin care around the site and promptly treat infections or granulation tissue, which can contribute to scarring. If stenosis develops, dilation or surgical revision may be required to restore patency.

Stomal stenosis is a late gastrostomy site complication where scar tissue narrows the stoma, making it hard to pass the tube and potentially impeding feeding. It tends to arise after the tract has formed and progresses with chronic irritation or inflammation that drives fibrosis.

Prevention focuses on keeping the stoma and tract healthy and patent. Avoid trauma to the stoma by not overtightening the external bumper and by securing the tube to reduce traction. Use an appropriately sized tube to minimize chronic irritation, and ensure the tract has time to mature before full use. Maintain good skin care around the site and promptly treat infections or granulation tissue, which can contribute to scarring. If stenosis develops, dilation or surgical revision may be required to restore patency.