PEG Tube Placement
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a Gastroenterology/Hepatology procedure that involves the placing a tube into the stomach percutaneously, aided by endoscopy. This technique was first described by Gauderer in 1980. Different variations of the technique include the pull, push, introducer, and Versa (T-fastener) methods.
PEG Tube Placement Preparation:
No food or liquids (this includes water) minimally 6 hours prior to the procedure. You may also have diet and/or medication restrictions the week prior to the exam. Please refer to your physician for detailed instructions. Plan to have someone you know drive you home. Since the procedure is usually performed with intravenous sedation, you will be instructed to not drive a car or return to work until the next day. Contact the physician and inform him or her of any special needs, medical conditions, latex allergy or current medications you are taking. The office staff will attempt to contact you before your procedure to answer any questions you may have.
Day of PEG Tube Placement:
You may be expected to arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time. You may have an intravenous line placed, since the procedure is usually performed with intravenous sedation. You will be asked if there is a responsible person to drive you home after the exam. The procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes. During the exam, there is often a feeling of pressure in the abdominal area. Your physician may give you medication to help you relax and better tolerate the exam. During the procedure the physician may take biopsies (small tissue samples).
After the procedure is completed you will recover for about 30-45 minutes. You may experience a sore throat after the procedure. Once you have met the discharge criteria, the physician will discuss with you the preliminary findings. Diet and/or medication restrictions may be given to certain patients depending on the findings of the exam. The stomach and abdomen will heal in 5 to 7 days. Moderate pain can be managed with medications. Arrangements will be made to teach you how to care for the tube.