| [ Summary ] |
Swallowing disturbances in patients, due to neuromuscular disease, with normal alimentary tract function, must receive managed nutrition using gastrostomies. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a less invasive and more safe technique than surgical gastrostomy. Nutrition using PEG provides better therapy in relation to cosmetic concerns, complications and management than nasal tubing nutrition. PEG may be safely performed. Once trouble arises, it may lead to critical conditions, because many patients who receive PEG are elderly. In order to perform PEG safely, we must understand the proper indications for its application and contra-indications, consider the risks, avoid complications to perform PEG properly. |