Deep Nutritional Access: Percutaneous Endoscopic Enterostomy What is a Percutaneous Endoscopic Enterostomy? A Percutaneous Endoscopic Enterostomy (often referred to as a PEJ or Jejunostomy) is a specialized procedure used to place a feeding tube directly into the jejunum (the middle section of the small intestine). While a PEG tube goes into the stomach, an Enterostomy bypasses the stomach entirely, delivering nutrition directly to the small bowel. The procedure is performed using a "double-access" approach: an endoscope is used internally to locate a safe entry point in the small intestine, while a small incision is made through the skin (percutaneously) to secure the tube. This technique is essential for patients who require long-term feeding but cannot tolerate food in the stomach due to structural or functional issues. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? When the stomach is unable to process food safely, an Enterostomy becomes the vital lifeline for your nutritional health. This procedure is personally vital for you if: You Suffer from Severe Gastroparesis: If your stomach muscles are paralyzed or significantly weakened and cannot move food into the intestines, bypassing the stomach is the most effective way to prevent malnutrition. Gastric Reflux or Aspiration is a High Risk: For patients who chronically inhale stomach contents into their lungs (aspiration), delivering food directly to the small intestine significantly reduces the risk of life-threatening pneumonia. You are Recovering from Gastric Surgery: If the stomach is partially removed or needs to be kept completely "at rest" for healing, an enterostomy provides a safe alternative for continuous nourishment. Biliary or Pancreatic Issues Preclude Gastric Feeding: In certain complex cases involving the upper GI tract, feeding into the small bowel is the only way to ensure systemic stability. The Path to Internal Stability and Nutritional Health The goal of an Enterostomy is to provide a reliable, long-term solution for your body''s energy needs while protecting your upper digestive system. This pathway is designed to: Ensure Targeted Nutrient Delivery: By placing the tube directly into the small intestine, we ensure your body absorbs vital calories and fluids efficiently, bypassing the area of dysfunction. Maintain Strict Procedural Safety: Because the small intestine is more mobile than the stomach, this procedure requires high precision. We require a comprehensive medical history, diagnostic X-rays (to map intestinal loops and avoid blood vessels), and blood tests (to confirm your inflammatory markers and clotting status) before the procedure. A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: The small intestine is highly sensitive to new feeding rhythms. We focus on a 2-3 week recovery and stabilization period. During this time, our multidisciplinary team—including clinical dietitians and wound care specialists—will monitor your "feeding tolerance," adjust your formula, and provide comprehensive training on tube maintenance to ensure you are stabilized and confident. All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.