PEG is an invasive procedure in which a flexible feeding tube is placed through the abdominal wall and into the stomach. PEG allows nutrition, fluids and/or medications to be put directly into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and esophagus. 

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A lighted flexible endoscope is used to guide the creation of a small opening through the skin of the upper abdomen and directly into the stomach. This procedure allows the placement and securing a feeding tube into the stomach.

 

Intravenous sedation and local anesthesia's used and an antibiotic is given by vein prior to the procedure. Patients can usually go home the day of the procedure or the next day.

 

Patients who have difficulty in swallowing, problems with their appetite or an inability to take adequate nutrition through the mouth can benefit from this procedure.