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Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital experience
1Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg Repatriation General Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a safe and effective procedure for elderly patients with dysphagia. It provides a viable alternative to surgical gastrostomy for long-term feeding support.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics
- Endoscopy
Background:
- Dysphagia significantly impacts nutritional status in elderly patients.
- Enteral alimentation is crucial for managing malnutrition in this population.
- Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) offers a minimally invasive feeding solution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of PEG in elderly patients with dysphagia.
- To assess the long-term outcomes and complications of PEG placement.
- To compare PEG with surgical gastrostomy in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 32 elderly patients (mean age 75) undergoing PEG.
- Patients had dysphagia but were candidates for enteral feeding.
- Data collected on procedure success, tolerance, tube functionality, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- PEG was successful and well-tolerated in 16 of 17 stroke patients.
- 31% of patients had a functioning PEG at a median of 30 weeks.
- 7 patients had tubes removed after swallowing recovery; 47% died from underlying conditions.
Conclusions:
- PEG is a safe and useful alternative to surgical gastrostomy for elderly patients with long-term feeding difficulties.
- The procedure demonstrates good tolerability and efficacy in selected patients.
- PEG facilitates enteral nutrition, improving management of dysphagia in the elderly.