Luangpor Koon to have feeding tube inserted into stomach

Luangpor Koon Paritsutho of Wat Banrai was Thursday morning transferred to Bangkok's Siriraj Hospital, where he will Friday undergo a gastrostomy, or feeding-tube insertion.

The monk, who turns 88 on October 4, has not been receiving adequate nutrition due to eating difficulties. Inserting a feeding tube directly into his stomach via the gastrostomy operation was considered less traumatic than having a tube inserted through the nose.

Dr Pinitjai Nakphan said the monk, who is recovering from tuberculosis, had gained strength, was more cheerful and could now hold conversations with his close disciples. Providing there are no complications, the monk will be transported to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima on September 12, he added.

The Nation