Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy
(PEG)

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Medical Author: Jay W. Marks, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

• What is percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?
• What is the purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?
• Who does percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?
• Where is percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy done (PEG)?
• How is percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy done (PEG)?
• When can the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy patient go home (PEG)?
• What are the possible complications with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?
• What are the advantages of percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy?
• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy At A Glance

What is percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)?

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a surgical procedure for placing a tube for feeding without having to perform an open operation on the abdomen (laparotomy). It is used in patients who will be unable to take in food by mouth for a prolonged period of time. A gastrostomy, or surgical opening into the stomach, is made through the skin using an a flexible, lighted instrument (endoscope) passed orally into the stomach to assist with the placement of the tube and secure it in place.

What is the purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy?

The purpose of a percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy is to feed those patients who cannot swallow food. Irrespective of the age of the patient or their medical condition, the purpose of percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy is to provide fluids and nutrition directly into the stomach.

Who does percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy?

Percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy is done by a physician. The physician may be a general surgeon, an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist), radiologist, or a gastroenterologist (gastrointestinal specialist).

Where is percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy done?

PEG is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility. It is not necessary to perform a percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy in an operating room.

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