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Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEGs)

A PEG is a feeding tube that goes into the stomach directly through the abdominal wall. It involves having an endoscopy (the insertion of a flexible tube via the mouth into the stomach) and a small cut on the skin over the abdomen. It is a simple and safe way of receiving food when there are problems with swallowing or eating. A PEG can be temporary or permanent and is used in adults and children.

IT IS A SIMPLE and safe way of receiving food when there are problems with swallowing or eating.

Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs (arthritis tablets) should be stopped at least one week prior to the procedure.

If you are diabetic, have heart valve disease or have a pacemaker implanted, or are taking blood-thinning tablets (such as Warfarin), it is important to discuss this with your doctor beforehand since special arrangements may be necessary or special precautions may need to be taken.

The Facts About PEGs
Third Edition 2007

Content

• What is a "PEG"?
• Special considerations
• How is a PEG put in?
• Will I be given sedation?
• What happens after the PEG is inserted?
• Are there any risks?
• How long does a PEG tube last?

Download

The Facts About PEGs is now available as an A4 size pdf file.
PEGS (Adobe Acrobat PDF 644K)