Understanding the Different Types of Enteral Feeding Tubes

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, enteral tube feeding is the preferred nutritional support method for patients with a functional GI tract but an inability to consume sufficient oral nutrition. Choosing the right device depends on the projected duration of use and the patient's medical condition, making it vital to understand the different types of enteral feeding tubes.

Quick Summary

This overview explains the various enteral feeding tubes, categorizing them by insertion site and duration of use. It covers short-term tubes like nasogastric (NG) and long-term options such as gastrostomy (G) and jejunostomy (J) tubes, along with key factors for selecting the appropriate device.

Key Points

Short-term vs. Long-term: Enteral feeding tubes are selected based on the anticipated duration of use, typically categorized as short-term (less than 4-6 weeks, e.g., NG tubes) or long-term (surgically placed, e.g., G-tubes).
Insertion Location Matters: The tube's destination, whether the stomach (gastric) or small intestine (post-pyloric), is chosen based on factors like digestion and aspiration risk.
Bypass the Stomach: Jejunostomy (J-tubes) and nasojejunal (NJ) tubes are used to feed directly into the small intestine, bypassing the stomach for patients with gastric motility issues or high reflux risk.
Versatility with GJ-Tubes: Gastro-Jejunal (GJ) tubes offer dual access, with one port feeding the jejunum and another providing access to the stomach for decompression or medication.
Patient Considerations: Factors such as the patient's anatomy, risk of aspiration, and overall comfort are major influences in the selection of the most suitable enteral tube.
Insertion Methods Vary: Depending on the tube type, placement can be done non-invasively (nasally), endoscopically, or through open surgery.

What are the Different Types of Enteral Feeding Tubes?

Enteral feeding, or tube feeding, is a crucial method of providing nutrition when a person cannot eat or drink adequately by mouth. The specific type of tube used is determined by several factors, including the intended duration of feeding, the patient's medical condition, and the overall nutritional goals. Tubes can be broadly categorized into short-term (nasally inserted) and long-term (surgically placed) options.

Short-Term Enteral Feeding Tubes

These tubes are designed for temporary use, typically less than four to six weeks. They are inserted through the nose or mouth and guided into the gastrointestinal tract, a procedure that is often performed at the bedside.

Nasogastric (NG) Tube: Inserted through the nose and into the stomach. NG tubes are common for short-term feeding, medication administration, and gastric decompression. A Dobhoff is a type of small-bore NG tube with a weighted tip to aid placement past the pylorus.
Nasojejunal (NJ) Tube: This tube is passed through the nose, stomach, and into the jejunum, the second part of the small intestine. NJ tubes are used when the stomach needs to be bypassed due to issues like delayed gastric emptying, severe acid reflux, or a high risk of aspiration.
Nasoduodenal (ND) Tube: Similar to an NJ tube, this tube extends through the nose and stomach but ends in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. It is also used when gastric feeding is not feasible or tolerated.

Long-Term Enteral Feeding Tubes

For individuals requiring nutritional support for more than four to six weeks, a surgically or endoscopically placed tube is the preferred option. These tubes are placed directly into the stomach or small intestine through a small incision in the abdomen.

Gastrostomy (G-tube) or Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tube: A G-tube is surgically inserted directly into the stomach. A PEG tube is a specific type of G-tube placed with the aid of an endoscope, which is a less invasive procedure than traditional surgery. These tubes are secured by an internal bumper or balloon and an external bolster.
Jejunostomy (J-tube) or Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy (PEJ) Tube: Surgically placed directly into the jejunum. J-tubes are used when gastric feeding is not possible due to chronic GI motility disorders, stomach issues, or high aspiration risk. PEJ tubes are a specific type of J-tube inserted endoscopically.
Gastro-Jejunal (GJ) Tube: A two-port tube that enters the stomach (G-port) and extends into the jejunum (J-port). This device allows for feeding directly into the jejunum while simultaneously providing access to the stomach for venting (releasing trapped air) or medication administration.

Comparison of Common Enteral Feeding Tubes


Feature	Nasogastric (NG) Tube	Gastrostomy (G/PEG) Tube	Jejunostomy (J/PEJ) Tube	Gastro-Jejunal (GJ) Tube
Insertion Site	Nose to stomach	Abdomen to stomach	Abdomen to jejunum	Abdomen to both stomach & jejunum
Placement Method	Nasally (at bedside)	Surgically or endoscopically	Surgically or endoscopically	Surgically or endoscopically
Duration	Short-term (less than 4-6 weeks)	Long-term (more than 4-6 weeks)	Long-term (more than 4-6 weeks)	Long-term (more than 4-6 weeks)
Primary Use	Feeding, medication, decompression	Feeding, medication, decompression	Feeding, medication	Feeding (J-port), venting (G-port)
Aspiration Risk	Higher risk if poor swallowing	Lower than NG; can be higher than J	Lower risk (bypasses stomach)	Lower risk (bypasses stomach)
Key Advantage	No surgery required	Comfortable and discreet for long-term	Ideal for patients with gastric issues	Dual ports offer versatility

Factors Influencing Tube Selection

Several critical factors guide the medical team in selecting the appropriate enteral feeding tube for a patient. These include:

Feeding Duration: Short-term tubes are suitable for acute illness or post-operative recovery, while long-term tubes are necessary for chronic conditions or permanent feeding needs.
Gastrointestinal Function: The tube's final destination (stomach, duodenum, or jejunum) is determined by the patient's digestive capabilities. A patient with gastroparesis, for example, will require post-pyloric feeding via a J-tube or GJ-tube to bypass the non-functional stomach.
Aspiration Risk: For patients with impaired swallow reflexes or severe reflux, placing the tube beyond the stomach into the jejunum reduces the risk of aspiration.
Patient Anatomy: Previous surgeries, anatomical abnormalities, or obstructions can influence the placement method and final location of the tube.
Mobility and Comfort: Low-profile tubes, often called "buttons," are available for long-term surgically placed tubes. These are more discreet and comfortable for mobile patients.

Conclusion

Selecting the correct enteral feeding tube is a collaborative decision involving doctors, dietitians, and the patient or their family, ensuring the best possible nutritional outcome while minimizing complications. The fundamental distinction between short-term (nasally inserted) and long-term (surgically placed) options serves as the primary starting point, with further considerations based on the desired site of delivery within the gastrointestinal tract. From a temporary nasogastric tube to a permanent gastrostomy button, each device serves a specific purpose tailored to a patient's individual needs. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone involved in managing or receiving enteral nutrition. For further clinical information on the practice of enteral feeding, consult reputable medical resources, such as those provided by the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

An NG tube is a temporary, non-surgical tube inserted through the nose into the stomach, used for less than 4-6 weeks. A G-tube is a long-term tube surgically placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall.

A J-tube is used when feeding into the stomach is not possible or tolerated. This can be due to conditions like delayed gastric emptying, severe acid reflux, or a high risk of aspiration, as a J-tube bypasses the stomach entirely.

No, surgically placed tubes differ based on where they end. Gastrostomy tubes go into the stomach, jejunostomy tubes go into the jejunum, and gastro-jejunostomy (GJ) tubes offer access to both.

For nasally inserted tubes, placement is typically confirmed with an X-ray before the first use. For surgically placed tubes, position is usually confirmed during the placement procedure and monitored by checking external markings.

A 'button' is a more discreet and low-profile gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube that sits flush with the skin. It is connected to extension tubing only when administering feeds or medication, enhancing mobility and comfort.

The gastric (G) port on a GJ-tube provides access to the stomach for venting trapped air or draining fluids. The jejunal (J) port delivers nutrition directly into the small intestine.

Whether you can eat and drink normally with a PEG tube depends on your underlying medical condition and swallowing ability. For some, oral intake is restricted, while others may be able to have small amounts by mouth in consultation with their medical team.

Enteral feeding tubes are typically made from polyurethane or silicone. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was also used historically but has largely been replaced due to flexibility and longevity concerns.