Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a minimally invasive procedure in which a feeding tube is placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. This procedure is used for long-term nutritional support for patients who cannot eat or swallow due to medical conditions like stroke, cancer, or neurological disorders.
The PEG tube is inserted using endoscopic guidance, making the procedure less invasive and reducing the need for general anesthesia. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation.
Postoperative care focuses on managing the PEG tube, monitoring for signs of infection, and ensuring that the patient receives adequate nutrition. Patients typically adapt to using the feeding tube and can return to daily activities with some adjustments to their diet and lifestyle.
PEG provides an effective, minimally invasive option for long-term nutritional support, improving the quality of life and survival rates for patients with difficulty swallowing or absorbing food.