Complications of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: a surgical experience

AIM: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a practical and safe option to place an alimentary gastrostomy. We observed that a relevant rate of complications are related to management of PEG. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We registered the patients treated in our Unit from September 1994 to December 2005. We placed 293 PEG (243 pts). Preferably using a tube 16 Fr, in 7 cases 18 Fr, in 21 cases 20 Fr and only in 3 cases 9 Fr. The median age was 69.8 years; ratio female:male 3:1. In 67 cases the treatment was carried out in not hospitalized patients. RESULTS: The incidence of late and early complications is statistically higher in hospitalized patients than at home. CONCLUSION: We think that a correct management of PEG (nurses correct information) and the experience of endoscopist and a dietician can significantly reduce the rate of complications