Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)

PEG is usually performed under general anesthesia. A pre-anesthesia consultation is required, and a blood test will be requested to check clotting.

• You must fast completely for at least 6 hours
• A mouthwash with an antiseptic solution is recommended
• If needed, the abdominal wall will be shaved

The endoscope is inserted through the mouth and used to locate the puncture point by shining light through the skin (transillumination). At this point, a puncture is made into the stomach along with a short incision through which the tube is brought out. The tube is held in place by 2 discs, one on each side of the wall.

The most common complications are infection at the puncture site (antibiotics before the procedure are recommended to reduce this risk) and pain at the puncture site. Other, very rare complications include bleeding from puncture of an abdominal blood vessel, peritonitis, or injury to part of the digestive tract. In exceptional cases, general anesthesia may cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

The tube should be flushed with water 8 hours after placement, and feeding can begin after 24 hours. The dressing is changed daily for one week, then 3 times a week for 1 month. After 1 month, the opening has usually healed: daily cleaning with soap and water is enough. You can shower without protection; a waterproof dressing is recommended for baths.