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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is NG Tube Recommended For Weight Gain In A Child Suffering From Liver Issues?

I am desperately trying to get my daughter to gain weight. She has liver issues (billiary atresia) and is on fortified breast milk and MCT oil.

We are considering a NG tube to help her gain by increasing her intake. What are some of the risks associated with one?
                                                                 
Mon, 25 May 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,
I can understand your concern for your daughter and i will do my best to resolve your issue.

I would like to know few information from your side like how old your daughter is, is she able to take milk by mouth, is there a problem of recurrent vomiting, whether any other symptoms or not.

I would like to tell you that if one cannot eat by mouth or there is excessive vomiting, then only nasogastric tube is inserted for feeding. But if she can eat properly and no other major issue then i would not advise you to go for NG tube.

Nasogastric tubes will have its own risks like infection, blockage, etc. Weight gain will occur automatically after eating breast milk, so don't get over zealous. Meanwhile you can consult a surgeon for billiary atresia and treat it as per doctor's advise.

Hope this answers your question and let me know directly if you have any further relevant queries.
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Is NG Tube Recommended For Weight Gain In A Child Suffering From Liver Issues?

Hello, I can understand your concern for your daughter and i will do my best to resolve your issue. I would like to know few information from your side like how old your daughter is, is she able to take milk by mouth, is there a problem of recurrent vomiting, whether any other symptoms or not. I would like to tell you that if one cannot eat by mouth or there is excessive vomiting, then only nasogastric tube is inserted for feeding. But if she can eat properly and no other major issue then i would not advise you to go for NG tube. Nasogastric tubes will have its own risks like infection, blockage, etc. Weight gain will occur automatically after eating breast milk, so don t get over zealous. Meanwhile you can consult a surgeon for billiary atresia and treat it as per doctor s advise. Hope this answers your question and let me know directly if you have any further relevant queries.