What is percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a medical procedure that involves placing a tube through the abdomen and into the stomach to provide nutrition and hydration. It is often used for people who are unable to take in enough nutrients and fluids through the mouth, either due to a medical condition or surgery that affects their ability to swallow.

During the PEG procedure, a gastroenterologist inserts an endoscope, a thin flexible tube with a light and a camera on the end, through the mouth and into the stomach. The endoscope is used to guide a small tube, called a PEG tube, through the abdominal wall and into the stomach. The PEG tube is held in place by a small balloon that is inflated once the tube is in the proper position.

PEG is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia. It is usually done on an outpatient basis, which means the patient can go home the same day as the procedure. PEG is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of complications. However, it is not suitable for everyone, and the specific recommendations for PEG will depend on the individual’s specific condition and needs.

What is the purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy?

The purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy (PEG) is to provide nutrition and hydration to people who are unable to take in enough nutrients and fluids through the mouth, either due to a medical condition or surgery that affects their ability to swallow. PEG is a medical procedure that involves placing a tube through the abdomen and into the stomach to provide a means of delivering nutrition and hydration directly to the stomach.

PEG is often used for people who have conditions that make it difficult or impossible to swallow food or liquids, such as:

• Stroke
• Neurological conditions (such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy)
• Cancer
• Head and neck injuries
• Esophageal cancer
• Gastroparesis (a condition in which the stomach muscles do not work properly, preventing the stomach from emptying)