Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tube Placement

Overview

During this procedure, a feeding tube is placed in your stomach. This tube will be used to give you food, liquids and medicines (if needed). A PEG tube is very helpful for patients who have trouble swallowing.

Inserting the Endoscope

First, you are given medicines that relax you and relieve pain. A local anesthetic numbs your belly. The doctor then uses a camera called an endoscope. This soft flexible tube is carefully guided down your throat and into your stomach.

Creating the Incision

Your doctor inspects the stomach lining with the endoscope. After finding the best spot for the tube to enter your stomach, the doctor shines the endoscope's bright light at it. The light is visible through the skin of your abdomen. A small incision is made in your skin.

Placing the Tube

A tube called a catheter is placed through this incision and into your stomach. A guide wire is pushed through the catheter and up through a channel in the endoscope. The catheter is removed. Your doctor attaches the PEG tube to the guide wire and pulls it down through the endoscope and into your stomach. The end of the PEG tube is carefully pulled out through the opening.

End of Procedure

The end of the tube is trimmed, leaving six or eight inches sticking out. The tube is capped and taped to your skin so that it is comfortable and secure. Your abdomen may be sore for a few days after the procedure. Your healthcare team will show you how to use your PEG tube and how to keep it clean.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.