Gastric Ulcer from the Pressure of a Gastrostomy Tube: A Rare Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Abstract

Gastrostomy tube placement is a well-known procedure for obtaining permanent enteral access and providing long-term nutritional support. Although it is usually well tolerated, a diverse array of complications can occur. A rare, and often unrecognized, complication of gastrostomy tube placement is upper gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to a gastric ulcer caused by pressure from a gastrostomy tube bumper or balloon. Here, we present a case of an elderly woman who experienced hematemesis and bleeding around the gastrostomy site. This report should alert healthcare staff that excessive tightening of the gastrostomy tube retainer or prolonged traction of the gastrostomy tube can cause pressure necrosis manifesting as gastric ulceration.