MND—also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)—is a devastating, progressive and fatal condition that attacks the nerve cells controlling muscles. As the disease advances, many patients struggle to swallow, leading to dangerous weight loss and malnutrition. A gastrostomy is a procedure to place a feeding tube directly into the stomach, which is vital for maintaining nutrition, quality of life, and even survival.

However, timing is critical. If the procedure is carried out too early, it can have an adverse effect on quality of life. If done too late, it carries greater risks and can be less effective because patients can enter a “refractive” stage of being malnourished. The procedure may even become impossible due to weakened breathing muscles.