Question:
Do surgeons place NG and G-tubes post op ?

Was just wondering as I will be having WLS soon    — Mary M. (posted on July 15, 2002)

July 15, 2002
I think that this is something that happens on a surgeon-by-surgeon basis (or maybe hospital-by-hospital). I know for sure that my surgeon (Dr. Raper at HUP) puts in an N/G tube... You should ask your own surgeon about this unless you can find a reference to him out here in the Q&A and maybe even then.
   — John Rushton

July 15, 2002
Hi there! Just wanted to let you know that blessedly my surgeon has deemed them unnecessary. You will want to check with your surgeon. I don't think they would do both at any rate. I do know I am grateful not to be having either. Good Luck
   — Annie E.

July 15, 2002
Some surgeons do and some don't. Mine does "just in case" a complication should arise, and thank goodness he does. I had complications and had to be given a lot of meds through my G-tube. Had I not had one, he would of had to do it after my initial surgery. They are a pain in the neck but I am glad I had mine.
   — Kim B.

July 15, 2002
My doctor did not use either. He says that they are an added discomfort for the patient that isn't usually necessary. Even when I was re-hospitalized for vomiting (due to the Roxicet), he said it was "risky" putting in one because the staple line could be disrupted. Of course, this was 5 days post-op, and they were not in the O.R. to fix anything quickly. Hope this helps.
   — Tina B.

July 15, 2002
Hi! I agree with the previous posters. Check with your surgeon, each one is different. I had both and neither were a problem or a nuisance. If you are scared about them, don't be. They don't hurt or cause discomfort. My ng came out the night of surgery and my g tube stayed in for four weeks. I have a tiny little scar on my tummy from where it was. You will be just fine! Good Luck!
   — purdue_1993

July 15, 2002
My surgery was on 7/2/02. I had both tubes. The NG tube was HORRIBLE!!!! I warned the staff that my throat was small, but the tube they gave me was huge and I kept choking on it. Every time I swallowed... I felt it and it hurt. I couldnt wait to get it out. The lower tube was no bother at all.
   — Valerie H.

July 15, 2002
This is generally a personal preference on the part of the surgeon, although both tubes can become a necessary intervention in the event of surgical complications. Our surgeon places an NG tube after the patient is under anesthesia, and removes it before they wake up in the Recovery room.....no G-tube. Ask your surgeon beforehand about his surgical routine so you will have no "surprises". Good luck!
   — Diana T.