Makindo Medical Notes

A Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a procedure to place a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall using an endoscope. This procedure is usually done when a patient cannot take in enough food or liquids orally due to medical conditions like stroke, oesophageal cancer, or other swallowing disorders.

Procedure Overview:

1. Preparation:
   • The patient is sedated or placed under local anesthesia.
   • An endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is inserted through the mouth into the stomach to visualize the inside.
2. Insertion of the Tube:
   • The endoscope provides a clear view of the stomach lining.
   • A small incision is made in the abdominal wall where the feeding tube will enter.
   • A hollow needle is inserted into the stomach, and a wire or thread is passed through the needle.
   • The feeding tube is then pulled into position with the help of the endoscope, securing it in the stomach through the abdominal wall.
3. Post-Procedure Care:
   • The tube site is cleaned, and instructions are provided for tube maintenance.
   • The area is monitored for signs of infection, bleeding, or tube dislodgement.
   • Feeding through the tube can begin once the area has sufficiently healed, usually within 12 to 24 hours.

Benefits of PEG:

• Minimally invasive with quick recovery.
• Provides long-term access for nutrition.
• Can be performed in patients with chronic conditions who require feeding assistance.

Risks and Complications:

• Infection at the insertion site.
• Bleeding or injury to nearby organs.
• Tube blockage or dislodgement.
• Peritonitis (infection of the abdominal cavity).