Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy, commonly known as PEG, is a procedure for placing a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. This tube helps provide nutrition to those who cannot eat by mouth.
Why You Might Need a PEG Tube
A PEG tube may be necessary if you have conditions that impair your ability to eat, such as:
- Advanced neurological diseases.
- Severe swallowing disorders.
- Head and neck cancers.
PEG Procedure Overview
Under mild sedation, an endoscope is used to guide the insertion of a feeding tube through a small incision in the abdomen directly into the stomach. This minimally invasive procedure is typically completed in less than an hour.
Positioning: You will be comfortably positioned on your back on an examination table.
Sedation: Sedation will be administered to help you relax during the procedure.
Scope Insertion: The doctor will insert an endoscope through your mouth and guide it down to your stomach. The endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end.
Stoma Creation: Under video guidance from the endoscope, the doctor will make a small incision in your abdomen and insert the feeding tube directly into your stomach.
Tube Placement: The placement of the tube is secured, and the site is dressed to prevent infection.
Possible Complications
Though PEG is safe, potential risks include:
- Infection at the insertion site.
- Accidental dislodgement of the tube.
- Internal bleeding.
When to Call Your Doctor
It's important to monitor the site for infection or other issues. Call your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Redness, pus, or swelling at the tube site.
- Fever or chills.
- Unusual pain or discomfort.
General Preparation Instructions for Gastrointestinal Procedures
Each gastrointestinal procedure requires specific preparations to ensure your safety and the success of the treatment. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fasting: Avoid food and drinks, including water, for several hours, or more as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Medications: You may need to adjust or pause certain medications. Follow the specific directions given by your doctor.
- Bowel Prep: Some procedures require clearing the intestines using either a liquid solution or pills containing laxatives. Procedures like colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and PillCam capsule endoscopy typically require this type of preparation.
Please consult your doctor for detailed preparation instructions tailored to your health needs and the specific procedure.
Schedule an Appointment
Scheduling your appointment is through your gastroenterologist or by physician referral to one of our gastroenterologists.
Please contact your Gastroenterologist's office to schedule an exam/appointment. Contact us at 909.865.9141 for inquiries or questions.
If you do not have a primary care physician, please visit our website, mypvhc.com, to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician.
