Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
Other namesPEG tube
SpecialtyGastroenterology
ComplicationsInfection, Hemorrhage, Gastrointestinal perforation, Gastrocolic fistula, Buried bumper syndrome
ICD-9-CM43.11
OPS-301 codesec

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is an endoscopic medical procedure in which a tube (PEG tube) is passed into a patient's stomach through the abdominal wall, most commonly to provide a means of feeding when oral intake is not adequate (for example, because of dysphagia or sedation). This provides enteral nutrition (making use of the natural digestion process of the gastrointestinal tract) despite bypassing the mouth; enteral nutrition is generally preferable to parenteral nutrition (which is only used when the GI tract must be avoided). The PEG procedure is an alternative to open surgical gastrostomy insertion, and does not require a general anesthetic; mild sedation is typically used. PEG tubes may also be extended into the small intestine by passing a jejunal extension tube (PEG-J tube) through the PEG tube and into the jejunum via the pylorus.[1]

PEG administration of enteral feeds is the most commonly used method of nutritional support for patients in the community. Many stroke patients, for example, are at risk of aspiration pneumonia due to poor control over the swallowing muscles; some will benefit from a PEG performed to maintain nutrition. PEGs may also be inserted to decompress the stomach in cases of gastric volvulus.[2]

  1. ^ "Discussion". BCM Gastroenterology Grand Rounds. Baylor College of Medicine. Archived from the original on 2012-03-03. Retrieved 2010-10-16.
  2. ^ Gauderer MW (2001). "Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy-20 years later: a historical perspective". J. Pediatr. Surg. 36 (1): 217–9. doi:10.1053/jpsu.2001.20058. PMID 11150469.