What is PEG Insert?
PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy) is a procedure by which a feeding tube is placed to provide long-term nutritional support for patients who are unable to take enough calories by mouth. Some patients need feeding tubes for a short time while others need it for their entire life. This will depend on the patients specific needs and might not be known right away.
What to expect during PEG Insert?
The patient’s medical history will be reviewed by the health care team including a nurse, surgeon, and gastroenterology physician. An IV line will be placed. The health care team will administer medications and monitor vital signs. The healthcare team will help determine the appropriate type of drug(s) to be used during the procedure to keep the patient safe and comfortable.
The procedure itself takes about 30 minutes to complete. A flexible tube called an endoscope is passed through the mouth into the stomach. An endoscope allows the physician to see the inside of the esophagus and stomach. It also helps locate the proper place in the stomach to place the feeding tube. Once the best location has been determined, the skin is numbed, and a small incision is made by the surgeon into the abdomen through which a small tube is inserted. This is the feeding tube. Once in place, the feeding tube is held in place by a small button-like object called a bumper. This is on the inside of the stomach and cannot be seen. A long tube will be on the outside of the body for formula, fluid, liquid dietary supplements, and if directed, medications, to go directly into the stomach.
What should we expect after PEG Insert?
After the procedure the patient will be admitted to the hospital for a day or two. Usually, the tube feedings do not begin until the following morning.
PEG tubes need to be changed to a different tube 3-6 months after the first one is placed. MNGI will contact you to schedule this once we know the tissue is healed and the tube can be changed. The tube change procedure will be scheduled at a pediatric hospital.
What are the possible complications of PEG Insert?
Although problems with PEG tubes are rare, it is important for you to know when to call the doctor. Call if the patient has diarrhea for more than 48 hours, persistent nausea or vomiting, dehydration symptoms (thirst, dry tongue, fever, skin changes), vomiting of feedings, bloating, or abdominal distention, severe pain at tube site, a temperature over 101, excessive drainage or bleeding from the site or if it is difficult or impossible to flush the tube with formula or water.
Support:
If you have any questions or concerns please call MNGI at 612-871-1145.
