Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

This overview of a PEG procedure will give you a basic understanding of how it is performed, how it can help you, and what side effects you might experience. As you read this information, make note of any questions or concerns you have.  Give us a call and we will answer all your questions and concerns as you prepare for your PEG.

What is a PEG?

PEG stands for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, a procedure through which a flexible feeding tube is placed through the abdominal wall and into the stomach. It allows nutrition, fluids, and/or medications to be put directly into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and esophagus.

How is the PEG performed?

Your doctor will use a lighted flexible tube called an endoscope to guide the creation of a small opening through the skin of the abdomen and directly into the stomach. This procedure allows the doctor to place and secure a feeding tube into the stomach. Patients generally receive a mild sedative and local anesthesia, and an antibiotic is given by vein prior to the procedure. Patients can usually go home the day of the procedure or the next day.

Who can benefit from a PEG?

Patients who have difficulty swallowing, problems with their appetite, or an inability to take enough nutrition through the mouth can benefit from this procedure.

How should I care for the PEG tube?

A dressing will be placed on the PEG site following the procedure. This dressing is usually removed after one or two days. After that, you should clean the site once a day with diluted soap and water; keep the site dry between cleansings. No special dressing or covering is needed.

How are feedings given? Can I still eat and drink?

Liquid nutritional supplements are given through the PEG tube using a large syringe, a gravity drip using a tube connected to a hanging plastic bag, or a mechanical pump. Your doctor or other health care provider will give you complete instructions and a demonstration. A PEG does not prevent a patient from eating or drinking, but your doctor and you might decide to limit eating or drinking depending on any associated medical conditions.

Are there complications from PEG placement?

Complications can occur with the PEG placement. Possible complications include pain at the PEG site, leakage of stomach contents around the tube site, and dislodgment or malfunction of the tube. Possible complications include infection of the PEG site, aspiration (inhalation of gastric contents into the lungs), bleeding and perforation (an unwanted hole in the bowel wall). Your doctor can describe symptoms that could indicate a possible complication.

How long do these tubes last? How are they removed?

PEG tubes can last for months or years. However, because they can break down or become clogged over extended periods of time, they might need to be replaced. Your doctor can easily remove or replace a tube without sedatives or anesthesia, although your doctor might opt to use sedation and endoscopy in some cases. Your doctor will pull out the tube using firm traction and will either insert a new tube or let the opening close if no replacement is needed. PEG sites close quickly once the tube is removed, so accidental dislodgment requires immediate attention.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: The preceding information is intended only to provide general guidance and not as a definitive basis for diagnosis or treatment in any particular case. It is very important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.