PEG tube insertion, the placement of a feeding tube into the stomach, is also called gastrostomy tube insertion, G-tube insertion, and stomach tube insertion. It is often done through endoscopy (a long tube placed through the mouth, into the stomach) by a gastroenterologist, with the patient under local anesthesia. A small incision is made on the left side of the abdomen, and a small, flexible, hollow tube (catheter) with a balloon or flared tip is inserted into the stomach. Gastrostomy tubes are inserted, temporarily or permanently, for various reasons.
One may be recommended for any of the following
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Inability to swallow correctly
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Malnourishment, when patients cannot take enough food by mouth to maintain their nutrition
Risks of PEG insertion, although rare, include the following
