Button probe

Button probe

Tube in the stomach
Above the tube

The button probe is a type of probe used in medical technology for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy . Button probes are a special form of the balloon probe

description

As with other PEG probes, the basic element of the button probe is the flexible plastic tube with an outside diameter of 12–24  Ch (4–8 mm) with a locking head on the outside. The individual shaft length is 1.0–4.5 cm. In contrast to other gastric tubes, the fixation in the tube is not achieved by an inner retaining disc, but by a balloon. For maintenance of the fixing balloon, in contrast to the basic shape of the balloon probe, there is a branch in the closure head to a side access to a second tube, which runs in the primary tube and leads to the holding balloon. Instead of the hose clamp, for which there is no space, an anti-reflux valve prevents gastric contents from escaping.

Advantages of the button probe

The button probe, since it is inserted through the probe channel through a balloon that is unfilled, allows the probe to be changed without renewed endoscopic intervention, as may be necessary, for example, in the event of a blockage or damage to the tube. In addition, thanks to its flat shape that is close to the skin, the button probe is well suited for patients who are at high risk of self-manipulation - that is, children and dementia. The flat design also achieves a cosmetically good result.

Button probes can also replace a PEJ probe

disadvantage

The length of the button probe must be determined individually and button probes are more expensive than other probes. The holding balloon must be serviced regularly by checking the filling level of the balloon. The button probe has a shorter shelf life than PEG probes and balloon and valve defects require replacement.

See also

• Tube weaning

literature

• Jürgen Ferdinand Riemann: Gastroenterology in clinic and practice . The complete reference work for clinics and practices. ISBN 3-13-158361-4 .

Web links

• Elke Lainka: Complications with gastric and intestinal feeding tubes .
• Andrea Arnoldy: Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy .
• Fresenius: Guideline for maintaining a button .

Remarks

1. ↑ A charriere corresponds approximately to 1/3 mm

Individual evidence

1. ↑ Percutaneous Probes and Exchange Systems .
2. ↑ D. Schwab, M. Steingräber: 14 probes: types and their indications . September 25, 2014.
3. ↑ PEG / PEJ (including button) . Helios Clinic, Hettstedt.
4. ↑ Elke Lainka: Complications with gastric and intestinal feeding tubes .
5. ↑ Check the filling status of the balloon .

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !