Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: clinical experience and follow-up

To assess our clinical experience with this method of enteral feeding, we conducted a retrospective study and follow-up of 73 patients having percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). In addition, we conducted a telephone survey of 42 persons who cared for the PEG tube. The most common indication was neurologic impairment of deglutition. Early and late complications occurred in 12% and 33% of cases, respectively, and were usually minor. Our 30-day survival was 74%. Most patients (77%) maintained their weight with standard tube feedings. Satisfaction with and acceptance of the PEG was almost universal. Patients should be carefully selected, with attention to long-range benefit.