Witzel Gastrostomy

A Witzle gastrostomy is a procedure in which a special drainage catheter is inserted into the patient's stomach to provide access to the stomach contents and facilitate feeding of the patient. This is especially useful for people who are unable to feed themselves due to various illnesses or injuries.

The Witzel procedure can be performed either on an outpatient basis or in a hospital setting. In the first case, the patient is referred for an endoscopic procedure, which takes about 30 minutes. In the second case - 24 hours. However, it is necessary to prepare in advance, namely, refuse to eat for 6-8 hours before the procedure.

During the procedure, the doctor passes a thin endoscope through the mouth and into the stomach. He then places tubes into the gastric opening to connect them to the stomach. One tube can be used to feed the patient, while the other can be used to remove food particles and measure fluid levels in the stomach. After undergoing Witzel, the patient must continue to monitor his diet and nutrition, including constant monitoring by a doctor and the opportunity to seek help from him in case of any problems or difficulties.