Dog - Pharyngostomy Tube Feeding

What is a pharyngostomy tube?

A pharyngostomy tube is a small flexible tube that passes via an incision (cut) in the skin at the side of the neck, just behind the jaw bone, to enter the pharynx. This is the muscular compartment immediately behind the mouth which connects with the oesophagus (gullet). This is the tube by which food passes to the stomach. The patient can be fed liquid food via the pharyngostomy tube which by contraction of the pharynx will be swallowed allowing it to enter the stomach and be digested in the usual way. These tubes are useful in cases when the dog temporarily is unable to eat but still retains the ability to swallow.

What sort of liquid diet can I use with a pharyngostomy tube?

This depends on the individual needs of the patient. We will discuss this with you but virtually any liquid diet, inclunding home produced diets or those using commercial diets liquidised in a blender can be used. It is important to ensure that the diet is sufficiently runny so the tube does not block.

How do I accomplish the feeding and how often?

The liquid food is syringed through the tube three to five times a day depending on the individual circumstances. We will discuss this with you and if you have any queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

The basic steps are as follows:

1. If using canned food the correct consistency for syringing through the tube is usually achieved by liquidising the food in a blender with an equal amount of water. Always pour the food through a kitchen strainer when liquidised.
2. Remove the cap from the pharyngostomy tube.
3. Using the syringe provided, inject ________ ml of the food into your dog's feeding tube ________ times per day FOR A TOTAL OF ________ml PER 24 HOURS.
   It is helpful to inject the food slowly, about 1 ml per second, and to elevate your dog's front feet so the food goes easily into the stomach. With a large dog, feeding on the stairs is a good tip.
4. When the food has been injected, inject 10 ml of tap water through the tube so food does not remain in it; replace the cap in the tube.
5. Any remaining food should be stored in the refrigerator. Before the next feeding, it should be warmed to body temperature under the tap or in a microwave oven. If you heat it in a microwave oven, be sure to thoroughly mix the contents prior to feeding because of uneven heating. Also, always check the temperature prior to feeding to be sure that it is not too hot.

When is the tube removed?

This decision is based on the condition being treated. You will be instructed when to return, but removal of the tube is simple and does not usually involve anaesthesia. However, you should not attempt to remove it yourself. Please contact us with any concerns.