Aleksia Erickson
Research Mentor: Irene Carter
Mentor Department: Pediatric Surgery Section, Medicine
Author(s): Aleksia Erickson, Alivia Whisman, Irene Carter, Ruth Lewit, Claire Wunker, Ninette Musili, Joseph Church, Erika Newman, Samir Gadepalli
Session: Session 1 (9:00 AM – 9:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 30
Abstract
Among the pediatric population, many kids unable to eat by mouth opt for a long-term gastrostomy tube (GT), the smaller patient group opting for a short-term nasogastric tube (NG). A retrospective chart review was undertaken to investigate long-term outcomes, complications, and longevity of GT use. Currently, GTs are more often placed in patients with respiratory or metabolic comorbidities, with common indicators for GTs being dysphagia, intestinal failure, craniofacial abnormalities, failure to thrive, and neurodevelopmental disorders. GTs are not without risk, the purpose of this study is to compare outcomes and costs of patients who are discharged with GTs with those who are discharged with NG tubes. In order to obtain data for this research project, we will study current trends in NG vs GT placement over the past decade. The goal is to perform subgroup analyses of NICU patients that are <8kg and less than 6 months old at time of placement. More specifically, diving into the outcomes in those released from the hospital with NG or NJ tubes, complications, and emergency visits. We will also spend time identifying the risk factors for long term GT use, analyze costs of NG vs GT placement, and readmissions.
