Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy

Published with the inputs from Dr Sameer Sakkeer Hussain, Consultant, Medical Gastroenterology And GI Endoscopy, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a procedure in which a flexible feeding tube is placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall using an endoscope. PEG is recommended for patients who cannot eat or swallow normally due to medical conditions, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition and hydration.

What is PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy)?

PEG is a minimally invasive medical procedure where a tube is inserted into the stomach through the abdominal wall with the help of an endoscope. This allows direct feeding, bypassing the mouth and esophagus.

Who needs a PEG tube?

PEG is commonly used for patients with:

• Stroke with swallowing difficulties
• Neurological conditions (ALS, Parkinson’s, dementia)
• Head & neck cancers affecting swallowing
• Severe trauma or prolonged unconsciousness
• chronic conditions like dementia with early difficulties

How is PEG performed?

• Done under local anesthesia and sedation
• An endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach
• A small incision is made on the abdominal wall
• A feeding tube is placed into the stomach and secured
• The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes.

Is PEG safe?

Yes. PEG is a safe and commonly performed procedure. Risks like infection, bleeding, or tube dislodgement are rare and manageable.

What is recovery like after PEG placement?

• Most patients recover quickly and can start tube feeding within 24 hours
• Mild discomfort at the insertion site is common for a few days
• Regular cleaning and care of the tube site are required to prevent infection.                                           

  What are the benefits of PEG Feeding 

  Advantages over nasogastric tubes
• More comfortable for  long term use
• Lower risk of tube displacement
• Allows normal speaking and breathing
• Reduces risk of Aspiration pneumonia

• What You Can Do: Daily Activities

  • Shower and bathe (with proper tube protection)
  • Normal physical activities
  • Travel with proper precaution                             

    Precautions

  • Avoid pulling the tube
  • Maintain good hygiene around insertion site                

Can you live normally with a PEG tube?

Yes. Patients with PEG tubes can live comfortably with proper training and care. Nutrition, hydration, and medications can all be given through the tube. Many patients return to routine activities.

How long does a PEG tube last?

PEG tubes usually last  1-2 years and can be easily replaced if required.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you or a loved one requires nutritional support due to swallowing difficulties or chronic illness, the Gastroenterology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) provides safe and effective Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) procedures, along with comprehensive aftercare and patient training.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our gastroenterology specialists.