PEG tube
Pronunciation: peg toob
Also written as: PEG — percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube; feeding device placed through the abdominal wall into the stomach.
Full Definition
A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube is a feeding tube inserted through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach using endoscopic guidance. In pediatric patients, PEG tubes are placed when long-term nutritional support is needed due to swallowing difficulties, neurological conditions, or failure to thrive. The procedure is minimally invasive compared to surgical gastrostomy and allows for direct delivery of nutrition, medications, and fluids. PEG tubes require ongoing maintenance and monitoring for complications such as infection, displacement, or granulation tissue formation.
Usage
Usage note: PEG is both an acronym and commonly used as a standalone term. G-tube is informal shorthand.
In Context
- "The child with cerebral palsy received a PEG tube to ensure adequate nutritional intake and prevent aspiration." — Discharge summary