Abstract: A method for placing a feeding tube in a patient. The method includes the step of providing a needle defining a channel therethrough, the needle being constructed for insertion through an abdominal wall of a patient and having a distal end portion and a proximal end portion. The distal end portion of the needle is inserted through an abdominal wall of a patient. An endoscope constructed for insertion through the channel defined through the needle is provided and inserted through the channel defined through the needle. An external environment of the distal end portion of the needle is viewed using the endoscope in order to determine whether the distal end portion of the needle is positioned within a preselected portion of a gastrointestinal tract of a patient. A dilating device having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion is provided. The dilating device defines a channel therethrough.

Abstract: An apparatus for placing a feeding tube in a patient. The apparatus includes an introducer section defining a lumen therethrough and a tube section defining a lumen therethrough. A proximal end portion of the introducer section is mounted on a distal end portion of tube section such that the respective lumen are in fluid communication. Apertures are formed at the distal end of the introducer section and at the proximal portion of the tube section. The respective lumen are constructed to receive therein an endoscope. A graspable member is mounted on the distal end portion of the introducer section. A retaining member is mounted on the proximal end portion of the tube section. In order to place the apparatus in a patient, an endoscope is inserted into the aperture defined through the tube section and advanced such that a viewing portion of the endoscope is positioned proximal to the aperture defined through the distal end portion of the introducer section.