In this procedure, a feeding tube is placed through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). It is not uncommon for these feeding tubes to be referred to as G tubes or PEG tubes. Nutrition is delivered directly to your stomach through the tube. Nutrition or enteral feeding may also be used to describe this type of feeding.

Endoscopic surgery is the most common way for healthcare providers to place PEG tubes. Small incisions and a flexible instrument called an endoscope are used in endoscopic procedures.

Intravenous (IV) anesthesia and antibiotics are administered on the day of surgery. You will remain calm and numb during the procedure because of the anesthesia. Infection can be prevented with antibiotics.

There is also the possibility of receiving a local anesthetic. An injection of local anesthetic numbs the area, this injection is given near the site of the incision made by your surgeon.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy involves making a small incision in your upper abdomen, inserting the tube through the incision, and connecting the tube to your stomach.

It only takes around 20 to 30 minutes to complete the entire procedure. In most cases, you’ll be able to return home the same day or the next day.

PEG tubes may be helpful if you have trouble swallowing (dysphagia). Dysphagia can be caused by a brain injury, cancer of the head and neck, strokes, or chronic appetite loss caused by severe illnesses such as cancer.

You may also benefit from feeding tubes if you have a condition that interferes with your body’s ability to process nutrition. When you have cystic fibrosis or are on dialysis for kidney failure, a PEG tube may be of benefit to you. To keep a coma patient alive, a PEG tube may be used.

If you are unable to swallow or are unable to take in enough nutrition, PEG tubes are an important treatment. Your nutrition and hydration will be specialized after the placement of the G tube.

There are usually no complications or problems associated with G tubes after surgery. You will, however, have a different outlook depending on the underlying health condition that caused the placement of the tube.

After the tube is placed, most people receive liquid nutrition and fluids through it. Due to swallowing problems, people who need PEG tubes are restricted from eating and drinking by mouth. Small amounts of food and liquid can still be consumed through the mouth by some people. You may need to discuss eating and drinking restrictions with your healthcare provider.

Your surgeon will explain the procedure to you before surgery. If you have any bleeding issues, allergies to medications or heart conditions, you need to tell your doctor about them. Your medication may need to be adjusted based on your health and underlying conditions. A minimum of eight hours before surgery, you shouldn’t consume any food or drink. Arrangements need to be made for transportation home after surgery as well.

A gastrostomy tube will be inserted through the opening in your stomach by the doctor. Tubes such as this are sometimes called G-tubes, PEG tubes, or feeding tubes. You can use the tube to administer liquid nutrition, fluid, and medicines directly to your stomach. In addition, liquid or air may be drained from the stomach using this device.

In order to perform the examination, the doctor will insert a thin, lighted tube (scope) into your mouth. In order to insert the feeding tube into the stomach, the scope is used. The feeding tube will be pulled through an incision in your belly by the doctor. The tube’s outer end stays outside the body.

Staff at Advanced Gastroenterology will help you fully prepare for PEG tube placement surgery.

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