Nasojejunal Tube Placement Treatment in India

Ayaan Garcia, a 68-year-old retired mechanic,...

Ayaan Garcia, a 68-year-old retired mechanic, had been struggling for months. A complex abdominal surgery for a perforated ulcer left him with severe gastroparesis, his stomach simply wouldn't empty. Despite medication, he couldn't keep down enough food or even water. He was rapidly losing weight, felt constantly weak and dizzy, and was terrified of needing to go back to the hospital for IV nutrition. His gastroenterologist, Dr. Chen, recommended a nasojejunal (NJ) tube. This thin, flexible tube would be passed through his nose, past his paralyzed stomach, and directly into his jejunum (small intestine), allowing him to receive liquid nutrition and medications. The procedure was uncomfortable; Ayaan felt pressure and a strong gag reflex as the tube was guided with X-ray assistance. He described it as 'the weirdest feeling I've ever had.' Emotionally, he felt defeated and anxious, mourning the loss of eating normally. However, within 24 hours of starting the tube feeds, his energy began to return. The constant nausea subsided. After two weeks, he had gained 4 pounds. The tube was a visible reminder of his illness, but it became his lifeline. His anxiety transformed into cautious optimism. He could finally participate in family life again from his armchair, no longer tethered to a hospital bed, feeling a sense of control returning as his body healed.