Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
It is the placement of a feeding tube through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach by an endoscopic method. It is a safe and effective way to take food, medicines, and liquids for a person who has problems with swallowing.
How is it done?
The procedure is done with anesthesia. Under endoscopic guidance, the proper stomach and skin areas are selected. Once the skin area is anesthetized, a small incision is made. A special needle is inserted through this incision through the abdominal wall into the stomach. The gastrostomy tube is then connected to a guide wire and then placed in the correct position of the abdominal wall. A soft, round cushion holds the tube in the stomach. The wound is then thoroughly cleaned and covered with sterile gauze. Stitches are not used.
After placement:
Although this procedure is usually safe and well tolerated, rare complications can occur such as bleeding, injury to other organs or infection of the wound site. Over time some leak around the tube site may occur.
Follow the steps below for proper gastrostomy care:
- Always wash your hands before handling the tube
- Hold the gauze in place for 2-3 days after the tube insertion
- Clean the skin area with soap and water daily. You can shower on the second day after tube placement
- Slight in and out movements of the tube are normal and can help prevent complications
- Some redness of the skin is normal and generally decreases as the wound heals. If the skin is painful or red, it may be a sign of infection or local inflammation
- If you do not use the tube, rinse it with 30 ml of water at least once a day. Always rinse after each use to avoid clogging.
- Endoscopic gastrostomy, depending on care and use, can be used for several months before it is changed. It is not permanent and can be easily removed whenever necessary.
