Insertion/Removal of PEGs

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a method of placing a tube into the stomach percutaneously (through the abdomen), aided by endoscopy. PEGs allows nutrition, fluids and/or medication to be inserted directly into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and oesophagus; patients who have difficulty swallowing (especially following strokes), problems with their appetite or an inability to take adequate nutrition through the mouth can benefit from this procedure. Although similar outcomes can be achieved via nasogastric intubation (inserting a feeding tube through the nose), PEGs are more comfortable, easier to manage and far more discreet for patients who require long-term feeding assistance. 

In PEG insertion, an endoscope is passed down the throat and used to identify the wall of the stomach. The abdomen is then punctured with the use of an angiocath, and a soft guide wire is inserted through the puncture and drawn through the oesophagus and out the mouth. The feeding tube is then attached to the guide wire and pulled through the mouth, oesophagus and stomach, and then out of the incision. The tube is internally anchored to prevent it from moving by a small plastic disk. The procedure is typically performed under a sedation anaesthetic.

PEG removal occurs when patients are able to meet their own nutritional requirements by mouth and therefore no longer require their PEG tube for feeding. When the PEG tube is removed, an endoscope is again passed down the throat and into the stomach; the tube is then cut on the surface of the skin and pulled out (along with the anchor) through the stomach, oesophagus and mouth. Like insertion, PEG removal is typically performed under a sedation anaesthetic.

​

For legal reasons you must not drive a vehicle or operate machinery until the day after your procedure, but preferably not for 24 hours following your sedation anaesthetic. Driving under the influence of sedation carries the same implications as with alcohol. You must have a responsible adult to collect you  from day surgery,  drive you home and care for you for at least 12 hours post procedure.

​

Call 4639 2748 to book an appointment.

​