A gastrostomy is a medical procedure that involves creating an opening in the abdomen to place a feeding tube directly into the stomach. This is often done for patients who cannot eat by mouth due to various medical conditions, such as stroke, cancer, or neurological disorders. The tube allows for nutrition, hydration, and medication to be delivered directly to the stomach. The procedure is typically performed under anesthesia and can be done using different techniques, including endoscopy or surgery. After the placement of the tube, patients may require ongoing care to ensure the site remains clean and to monitor for any complications, such as infection or blockage.