Early decision of gastrostomy tube insertion in children with severe developmental disability: a current dilemma

Background:  Healthcare professionals advise earlier gastrostomy tube (GT) placement in children with severe developmental disabilities, marked feeding disorders and risk of malnutrition. However, a delay in acceptance of the procedure by parents/guardians is the main issue of concern. The present study aimed to investigate: (i) parental satisfaction with GT feeding and whether parents/carers would have accepted earlier GT placement and (ii) subsequent nutritional outcome. Methods:  Twenty-six disabled children with GT feeding were recruited. A structured questionnaire by telephone was held to record parental perceptions of GT (mainly satisfaction with the procedure and patient management).…