PEG Tube Placement

“PEG” is an abbreviation “percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy.” In this procedure, a flexible tube is placed into the stomach through the abdominal wall.

The purpose of the feeding tube is to bypass the mouth and esophagus, allowing fluids, nutrition, and medications to be placed directly into the stomach.

Am I a candidate for PEG tube placement?

PEG tube placement may be recommended during a hospital stay to help prevent complications, such as malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration pneumonia. It may serve as a temporary means of providing sustenance to help restore vitality. You may be a candidate for this procedure if you have:

Weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the lips, tongue, or larynx caused by stroke or neurological problems
The frequent occurrence of aspiration (food or liquid in the lungs)
Severe difficulty breathing
Cancer of the tongue, mouth, larynx, or esophagus

Why choose Advanced Surgical Technology for PEG tube placement in Mt. Vernon, Centralia and Herrin, IL?

At Advanced Surgical Technology, our mission is to provide you with superior surgical and nonsurgical care. We run our practice with the highest level of integrity, service, and skill. We are a multidisciplinary practice offering general surgery, vascular surgery, primary care, cosmetics, and aesthetics services. Our surgeon and support staff are deeply committed to delivering unparalleled patient care.

What is the PEG tube placement procedure like?

This procedure may be performed with intravenous sedation and local anesthesia. The surgeon passes an endoscope (flexible tube with a tiny camera at the end) through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach. This allows the doctor to view the stomach wall to ensure correct positioning. A tiny incision is made in the abdomen, through which the feeding tube is placed in the stomach.

What is recovery like after PEG tube placement?

A dressing will be placed on the insertion site and typically removed within one to two days. You will need to clean the area with soap and water and keep it dry between cleanings. You may experience mild soreness in your throat after your PEG tube placement procedure, which typically resolves on its own.

FAQ

Will I still be able to eat and drink after PEG tube placement?

This is an important question to discuss with your doctor. Some people may continue to eat and drink, depending on the reason behind placing the feeding tube. In some cases, there may be restrictions, for example, if you are having difficulty swallowing as the result of a stroke. Both nutrition and fluids can be delivered through the PEG tube.

How long will my PEG tube last?

Although they can last for months or years, PEG tubes may break down and will need replacement in time. The replacement can be quickly done, often without sedation or anesthesia. If a feeding tube is no longer needed, your doctor will remove the tube and allow the opening into the stomach to close.

Is PEG tube placement considered major surgery?

No, this procedure is not major surgery, as it does not involve opening the abdomen. Unless you are admitted to the hospital for other reasons, you will be able to return home the same or the next day.

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