Feeding tube support is a common and often essential part of throat cancer treatment in the UK. Because the cancer and its treatments: particularly radiotherapy and chemotherapy: target the area used for swallowing, many patients find it difficult or impossible to consume enough calories and fluids orally. The primary goal of a feeding tube is to prevent severe weight loss and dehydration, which can lead to treatment delays or a weakened immune system. By providing a reliable route for nutrition, specialists can ensure that the patient remains strong enough to complete their full course of therapy.
What we will discuss in this article
- Why radiotherapy and chemotherapy often necessitate nutritional support
- The different types of feeding tubes used in UK hospitals
- The role of the clinical dietitian in managing your tube feeds
- When a feeding tube is placed and how long it typically remains
- How to manage a feeding tube at home and prevent infections
- The importance of swallowing exercises while using a tube
- The process of returning to oral eating and tube removal
Why nutritional support is required
The side effects of throat cancer treatment can make the simple act of eating very painful or even dangerous.
- Oral Mucositis: Radiotherapy often causes painful ulcers and inflammation in the mouth and throat. This can make swallowing even soft foods extremely uncomfortable.
- Dysphagia: Swelling and changes in muscle coordination can lead to food or liquid entering the windpipe instead of the stomach. A feeding tube provides a safe alternative.
- Severe Fatigue and Taste Changes: Many patients lose their appetite entirely due to nausea or a metallic taste in the mouth. A feeding tube ensures they still receive the high calorie nutrition needed for tissue repair.
- Weight Maintenance: Keeping a stable weight is critical. If a patient loses too much weight, the radiotherapy mask used to keep them still during treatment may no longer fit, requiring a new plan and causing delays.
Types of feeding tubes in the NHS
There are several types of tubes used depending on how long the support is expected to be needed.
- Nasogastric Tube: Also known as an NG tube, this is a thin, flexible tube passed through the nose and down into the stomach. These are typically used for short term support, usually lasting a few weeks.
- Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy: Known as a PEG tube, this is placed directly into the stomach through a small incision in the abdomen during a short procedure. PEGs are used for patients who will need nutritional support for several months.
- Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy: Known as a RIG tube, this is similar to a PEG but placed using X ray guidance. This is often used if a tumour makes it difficult for an endoscope to pass through the throat.
Comparison: NG Tube vs PEG Tube
| Feature | Nasogastric Tube NG | Gastrostomy Tube PEG or RIG |
| Insertion Method | Through the nose at the bedside | Through the abdomen in a procedure |
| Duration | Short term: 2 to 4 weeks | Long term: several months |
| Visibility | Visible on the face | Hidden under clothing |
| Insertion Discomfort | Brief discomfort in the nose | Requires local or general anaesthetic |
| Maintenance | Replaced frequently | Stays in place for the whole journey |
| Ease of Use | Simple but can be displaced | Secure and easy for the patient |
To Summarise
Feeding tube support is a vital tool that helps many throat cancer patients successfully navigate their treatment pathway in the UK. Whether it is a short term NG tube or a longer term PEG, these devices ensure that the body receives the fuel it needs to fight the cancer and recover from the effects of radiation and chemotherapy. By preventing malnutrition and dehydration, feeding tubes reduce the risk of hospital admissions and treatment interruptions. With the expert guidance of the NHS multidisciplinary team, patients can learn to manage these tubes confidently at home, focusing their energy on completing their treatment and working toward a return to normal oral eating.
If you have concerns about your weight or are finding it difficult to swallow, speak to your clinical dietitian about whether a feeding tube might be a beneficial addition to your care plan.
Will I still be able to taste food if I have a feeding tube?
Yes, your taste buds are not affected by the tube itself. However, the cancer treatment may change your sense of taste. Some patients find they can still eat small amounts of their favourite foods by mouth while using the tube for the bulk of their calories.
Does it hurt to have a feeding tube inserted?
An NG tube can feel uncomfortable and may cause a sneezing or gagging sensation during insertion, but it is very quick. PEG and RIG insertions are done under sedation or local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself.
How long will I need the tube?
This varies. Most patients keep the tube throughout their seven weeks of treatment and for several weeks or months afterward until their throat has healed enough to swallow a full diet safely.
Can I shower with a PEG tube?
Yes. Once the insertion site has healed: usually after about two weeks: you can shower normally. Your specialist nurse will show you how to keep the area clean and dry.
What happens if the tube gets blocked?
If a flush of warm water does not clear the blockage, you should contact your specialist nurse or the out of hours number provided by your hospital. Never use sharp objects to try and unblock the tube.
When is the tube removed?
The tube is removed when you can swallow enough food and fluid to maintain your weight and hydration without it. This decision is made together with your dietitian and speech therapist.
Authority Snapshot
This article was reviewed by Dr. Stefan Petrov, a UK trained physician with an MBBS and postgraduate certifications including Basic Life Support BLS, Advanced Cardiac Life Support ACLS, and the UK Medical Licensing Assessment PLAB 1 and 2. Dr. Petrov has extensive clinical experience in general medicine, surgery, and emergency care. Dr. Petrov has worked in both hospital wards and intensive care units, performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and has contributed to medical education by creating patient focused health content and teaching clinical skills to junior doctors. This guide follows the standard UK clinical pathways and NHS guidelines for nutritional support in cancer care.
