· Introduction
· What is a PEG tube?
· Why do I need a PEG tube?
· How is the PEG tube put in?
· What are the risks?
· What happens next?
· What can I put down the tube?
· Recuperation
· What else do I need to know?
· Final thoughts & contact details
Peg Feeding
Introduction
This fact sheet has been developed to help people with MSA understand what a PEG tube is and
how it can help as an alternative to oral feeding. It describes the process of having a PEG tube
fitted and explains the risks.
What is a PEG tube?
This is a thin tube that enables you to be fed directly into your stomach which can replace taking
food through your mouth.
PEG stands for:
Percutaneous
-
formed through the skin
Endoscopic
-
placement of the tube
Gastrostomy
-
surgical formation of an opening through the abdominal wall into
the stomach
Why might I need a Peg tube?
When someone has a swallowing problem it may no longer be possible for them to take adequate
food and drink by mouth. One alternative is a PEG feed.
Peg Feeding
How is the PEG tube put in?
You will need a short stay in hospital, often overnight, sometimes a couple of days.
·
A general anaesthetic is not usually required and you will not be unconscious, but it is
unlikely that you will remember much about the procedure. You will be given an injection to
make you relaxed and sleepy.
·
·
A qualified nurse will remain with you throughout the procedure.
In order for the doctor to see where he needs to insert the PEG tube, he will pass a tube
into your mouth and down into your stomach. This will not interfere with your breathing and
will not be painful, but may be slightly uncomfortable as a small amount of air is put into the
stomach to obtain a good view.
The PEG tube is then positioned in the stomach. A small hole is made in the skin, in the
upper part of the abdomen, for the tube to pass through.
On the inside of the stomach a small spongy balloon on the end of the tube prevents it from
falling out. A small clip holds the tube securely on the outside of the skin.
·
·
What are the risks?
·
·
·
·
·
A sore throat after the examination is common and should resolve after a few hours.
There is a small risk of damage to crowned teeth or dental bridgework.
There is a small risk of an infection occurring during the procedure.
Occasionally there may be some risk of infection where the tube passes through the skin.
An antibiotic will be given to reduce the risk and treat any infection.
There is a small risk of bleeding where the tube passes through into the stomach.
·
The risk of any of these complications being serious is 1 in 100.
What happens next?
Whilst in hospital you will be shown how to look after the tube, how to clean the area around the
tube and you will start receiving feeds through the PEG.
What can I put down the tube?
Through the tube you take:
·
·
Your feed
Medication in liquid form
· Water
Some people are still able to have some food and drink by mouth on the advice of their doctor or
speech therapist.
Peg Feeding
People often feel much better after the PEG tube is in place. Mealtimes can be less of a struggle
and you will now be adequately nourished and hydrated. Weight loss becomes less of an issue.
You will feel less tired, hungry and thirsty than before the PEG was inserted.
Initially you will be given water through the PEG and the dietician will work out an individual regime
for you to ensure you have the correct calorific intake and nutritional balance.
Recuperation
The stomach and abdomen will heal in five to seven days. Any discomfort can be treated with
medication.
The patient/carer/family will be taught:
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
How to care for the skin around the tube
Signs and symptoms of infection
What to do if the tube is pulled out
Signs and symptoms of tube blockage
What feeds to use and how often
How to hide the tube under clothing
When normal activities can be resumed
What else do I need to know?
·
·
You will be able to take a shower soon after the PEG is inserted and after two weeks you
can take a bath and even go swimming.
You can go out and will find the PEG tube is unobtrusive under clothing.
Final thoughts & Contact details
Many people have benefited from having a PEG tube and enjoy the freedom it provides. Using the
PEG may seem very strange at first but you will soon adapt to a new way of life.
The procedure will be explained to you by hospital staff and you will have an opportunity to ask
questions prior to the procedure being carried out.
Having a PEG tube fitted is a very individual decision and not everyone chooses to have one.
Do not hesitate to contact the MSA Nurse Specialists if you would like further information or have
any questions.
Peg Feeding
MSA Trust Nurse Specialists:
Samantha Pavey (South East & East England): T: 0203 371 0003 |
E: [email protected]
Katie Rigg (Scotland, Ireland and North England):
T: 01434 381 932 |
E: [email protected]
Jill Lyons (Wales & South West England):
E: [email protected]
T: 01934 316 119 |
The MSA Trust’s Contact Details:
MSA Trust, 51 St Olav’s Court, City Business Centre, Lower Road, London SE16 2XB
T: 0333 323 4591
|
E: [email protected] |
W: www.msatrust.org.uk
Revision date: 10/15 | Review date: 10/17 | Version: 1.2
Disclaimer
We have taken every care to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this
publication. It is produced independently, is not influenced by sponsors and is free from
endorsement. The information should not be used as a substitute for the advice of
appropriately qualified professionals, if in any doubt please seek advice from your doctor or
legal professional.
References for this information sheet are available by contacting [email protected].
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