Facts About Peg Feeding Tubes
A PEG feeding tube is inserted into the stomach through a surgical procedure called a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). According to the American College of Gastroenterology, it's performed on individuals with long-term conditions that don't allow them to receive nutrition by mouth.
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Reasons for Use
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The most common use of PEG tubes is for patients with neurological problems, such as stroke or dementia, or those with cancer that affects the ability to swallow, such as oral or throat cancer.
Insertion Surgery
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With the patient under sedation, the surgeon uses an endoscope, a flexible tube with a tiny camera attached, to aid in placement of the PEG tube through an incision in the abdomen.
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Post-Op Symptoms
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After the surgery, patients may feel bloated and gassy or experience pain and cramping in the abdomen. The incision itself may also cause pain, which is treated with medication.
Side Effects and Complications
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The most common side effects include food or fluid leakage around the tube and mild bleeding. Possible serious complications are colon damage, excessive bleeding and infection of the abdominal cavity.
Feeding Through the PEG Tube
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A nutritionist or doctor will determine the type of formula that is best for the patient. This formula is slowly inserted in the opening of the tube outside the abdomen.
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