percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a medical procedure used to place a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. This is typically done for patients who cannot eat by mouth due to various medical conditions, such as stroke or cancer. The procedure is performed using an endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera, allowing doctors to see inside the stomach and guide the tube's placement.
The PEG tube provides a way to deliver nutrition, fluids, and medications directly to the stomach, ensuring that patients receive the necessary support for their health. It is a minimally invasive procedure, often performed under local anesthesia, and can be done in a hospital or outpatient setting.