What does PEG stand for in medical tube placement?

The term "PEG" in the context of medical tube placement refers to "Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy." This procedure involves placing a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall using an endoscopic technique. It is a minimally invasive method that allows healthcare providers to provide nutrition to patients who are unable to eat orally due to various medical conditions, such as neurological disorders, severe swallowing difficulties, or other digestive issues.

The use of an endoscope in the PEG procedure enables real-time visualization of the stomach and surrounding structures, which increases the safety and accuracy of the tube placement. The "percutaneous" aspect indicates that the procedure is performed through the skin rather than through traditional surgical methods, making it a preferred choice for many cases.

In clinical practice, the PEG tube allows for long-term enteral feeding and is particularly beneficial for patients requiring prolonged nutritional support. Overall, the terminology captures both the method of placement and the use of endoscopic guidance, underlining the key aspects of the procedure.