Vital Nutritional Support: Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) What is a PEG Procedure? Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) is a specialized procedure used to place a flexible feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. This is performed using an endoscope—a thin, lighted tube—to guide the placement from the inside, ensuring the tube is positioned perfectly for long-term use. Unlike traditional open surgeries, a PEG is a minimally invasive technique that requires only a small incision (usually less than a centimeter). The "percutaneous" aspect means it is done through the skin, while the "endoscopic" aspect ensures that the gastroenterologist has a clear, internal view of the stomach lining to avoid any surrounding organs. This tube allows for the direct delivery of nutrition, fluids, and medications when a patient is unable to swallow safely. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? Maintaining proper nutrition is the foundation of healing and strength. A PEG tube is personally vital for you if: You Face Long-Term Swallowing Difficulties: If neurological conditions, stroke, or physical blockages in the esophagus make swallowing difficult or dangerous, a PEG ensures you receive the calories and hydration you need to thrive. You are Recovering from Complex Head or Neck Treatments: For patients undergoing intensive therapy for the upper GI tract or neck, a PEG provides a reliable nutritional "bridge" while the throat area heals. Chronic Malnutrition is a Risk: If you are unable to meet your nutritional requirements through oral intake alone, this procedure provides a direct and efficient way to stabilize your weight and energy levels. Medication Management is Challenging: A PEG tube provides a safe and consistent route for essential medications that might otherwise be difficult to administer. The Path to Nutritional Stability and Recovery The goal of a PEG is to remove the stress of feeding and ensure your body has the fuel it needs to recover. This pathway is designed to: Establish a Secure Nutritional Route: By creating a direct bypass to the stomach, we ensure that your body receives vital nutrients without the risk of aspiration (inhaling food into the lungs). Ensure a High-Safety Procedural Workup: To ensure the placement is safe and your abdominal anatomy is clear, we require a comprehensive medical history, diagnostic X-rays (to check for gastric positioning and obstructions), and blood tests (to confirm your infection-fighting white cell count and clotting factors). A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: While the procedure is relatively quick, the body needs time to adapt to the new tube and the skin site must heal thoroughly. We focus on a 2-3 week recovery and stabilization period. During this time, our multidisciplinary team—including specialized nurses and dietitians—will train you on tube care and feeding schedules, ensuring your nutritional health is perfectly stabilized before you return to your full routine. All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.