G-tube replacement frequency ?

[Guest guest]

We have been needing to replace g-tubes (mic-key buttons) so frequently

over the past 4 months! Zipporrah has went through at least 5 in only 7

1/2-8 months of using a g-tube, and Asenath has went through 3 in the past 6

months (for her much sooner than usual). One of the problems I am noticing

is that the balloons seem to be leaking and then of course they pop out too

easily. I just had to change Zipporrah's tonight for that reason. I was

wondering how frequently you guys change them and also how many cc/ml do you

use to inflate the balloon. I have heard to use anywhere between 7-9 cc/ml

and usually go more with how it feels, making sure it isn't too tight or too

loose. It usually ends up being about 7-8 cc/ml. I have heard that certain

things affect the length of time the balloons will last, such as acids in

the tummy. I would really like to hear other peoples' experiences with this

subject and if there are any helpful hints to help them last longer. I hate

having to constantly order new ones, and I always try to have 2 extra ones

on hand in case both girls need a new one at the same time.

See www.caringbridge.org/ia/mitomomof9 and this link to see a real look into

Mito using a photo collage of my girls at www.heartbeatsformito.org

Darla: mommy to

Asenath (4) Mito, CNS Vasculitis, strokes, migraines, seizures, G-tube,

hypotonicity, disautonomy, SID, dev. delays, asthma, cyclic vomiting...

Zipporrah (12 months) Mito, strokes, neuro-motor planning dysfunction, SID,

GERD, 100% G-tube fed, asthma, trach issues, aberrant subclavian artery,

disautonomy, hypo & hypertonicity, migraines, possible seizures, dumping

syndrome, iron deficiency...

Luke (16), Leah (14), Rachael (12), Isaac (10), Tirzah (8), Kezia (3), &

Marquis (2) (some with Mito symptoms)