Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy
Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy (RIG) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by Interventional Radiologists to provide direct access to the stomach for feeding, fluids, or medication.
What is a Gastrostomy?
A gastrostomy is a small feeding tube is inserted through the abdominal wall into the stomach. This allows patients to receive nutrition directly into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and oesophagus. Gastrostomy tubes can be inserted endoscopically (PEG), surgical, or radiologically, referred to as Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy (RIG) or Percutaneous Radiologic Gastrostomy (PRG).
Why is Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy (RIG) performed?
Gastrostomy may be recommended for patients who:
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Have swallowing difficulties due to neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or motor neurone disease
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Have cancers of the head, neck, or oesophagus that block the passage of food
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Cannot have an endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) due to anatomy or prior surgery
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Require long-term feeding or stomach decompression
The Procedure
PRG is performed in hospital by a Specialist Interventional Radiologist. You will usually be admitted on the day of the procedure. Most patients are given sedation and local anaesthetic to keep them comfortable. Using X-ray guidance, the stomach is gently attached to the abdominal wall with small anchors (T-fasteners or gastropexy sutures) before the feeding tube is placed. Once in position, the tube is secured and its placement confirmed with contrast.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour. Patients are monitored afterwards and many can go home the same day, depending on their overall condition.
Benefits
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Minimally invasive alternative to surgery
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Safe and effective even when endoscopic approaches are not possible
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Provides reliable long-term access for nutrition and medication
Risks
As with any procedure, there are some risks. Most are minor, such as mild pain, bruising, or infection at the insertion site. Less common complications include tube dislodgement, bleeding, or leakage around the tube. Serious complications are rare, and your Interventional Radiologist will discuss these with you before the procedure.
Aftercare
The tube requires regular flushing to keep it clear, and the skin site should be kept clean and dry. In collaboration with our nutrition and allied health colleague, our team will provide detailed instructions and support to you, your family, or carers on how to care for the tube. Allied health follow-up is arranged to ensure the tube is working well and to provide replacements as needed.
Specialist Care
At Specialist IR, PRG is performed by experienced Interventional Radiologists in both public and private hospital settings across Melbourne, Victoria. Eligible public patients can have the procedure with no out-of-pocket costs.
If you would like to know more, or to arrange a referral, please contact Specialist IR with your clinical history and recent imaging.
Preparation and Referral
If you would like to refer to an Interventional Radiologist for consideration of PRG, please send a referral for consultation, including the following:
• Any available cross sectional imaging (abdomen or chest)
• Recent blood tests inclusive of FBE & Coags
• Records of consultation with other doctors & specialists, and surgical history
Gastrostomy procedures are performed at most of our public and private hospital locations in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Gastrostomy content by Dr James Lisik.