Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy (PEJ)
Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy, or PEJ, involves placing a feeding tube directly into the jejunum (part of the small intestine) when the stomach cannot be used. This is often chosen for patients with specific gastrointestinal conditions or those who have undergone certain types of surgery.
Why You Might Need a PEJ
Indications for a PEJ include:
- Inability to use the stomach for feeding due to surgical alterations or chronic diseases.
- Need for prolonged nutritional support bypassing the stomach.
PEJ Procedure Overview
Similar to a PEG, the PEJ procedure involves sedation and the use of an endoscope. However, the tube is placed further into the gastrointestinal tract, directly into the jejunum. This method ensures that nutrition bypasses the stomach, delivering sustenance directly where it can be absorbed.
Positioning: You will lie on your back on the examination table, similar to the positioning for a PEG.
Sedation: You will receive sedation to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
Scope Insertion: An endoscope is inserted through your mouth, passed through the stomach, and into the small intestine, specifically the jejunum.
Tube Placement: Once the appropriate site in the jejunum is identified, the doctor will create a small opening through the abdominal wall and place the feeding tube directly into the jejunum.
Stoma Care: The insertion site is carefully secured and dressed to minimize the risk of infection and ensure proper healing.
Possible Complications
Complications from PEJ can include:
- Infection or irritation at the entry site.
- Displacement of the tube.
- Rarely, leakage of intestinal contents.
When to Call Your Doctor
Alert your doctor if you experience:
- Severe discomfort or abdominal pain.
- Signs of infection like fever, redness, or discharge at the tube site.
- Problems with tube functionality.
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.
