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Artificial Feeding

Artificial feeding, sometimes called "tube feeding," supplies nutrition and liquids to those unable or unwilling to eat or drink. It is done by surgically inserting a tube directly into the stomach (gastrostomy) or by inserting a tube through the mouth or nose (orgastric or nasogastric [NG] tube).

Liquid nutrients may also be delivered into the bloodstream through a needle or catheter that is inserted into a vein (intravenous feeding).

Last Revised: October 8, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology

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