Therapy
PEG Feeding Tube
A PEG is a feeding tube placed through the abdominal wall into the stomach, to give nutrition to people who cannot eat enough by mouth.
Quick answer
PEG Feeding Tube: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a tube passed through the skin of the abdomen directly into the stomach, allowing liquid feed, fluids and medicines to be given without swallowing.
- Why it is done: It is used for people who cannot safely swallow or take enough nutrition by mouth — for example after a stroke, with certain neurological conditions, or head and neck cancers — often for the longer term.
- What happens: Using an endoscope passed into the stomach for guidance, and under sedation and local anaesthetic, the tube is placed through a small cut in the abdomen.
What it is
A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a tube passed through the skin of the abdomen directly into the stomach, allowing liquid feed, fluids and medicines to be given without swallowing.
Why it is done
It is used for people who cannot safely swallow or take enough nutrition by mouth — for example after a stroke, with certain neurological conditions, or head and neck cancers — often for the longer term.
What happens
Using an endoscope passed into the stomach for guidance, and under sedation and local anaesthetic, the tube is placed through a small cut in the abdomen. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
Recovery
The site is a little sore for a few days and is kept clean while it heals. A nurse or dietitian teaches how to use and care for the tube. Feeds are introduced gradually.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include infection or leakage around the site, the tube blocking or coming out, and rarely more serious complications. Good site care and correct technique prevent most problems.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
PEG Feeding Tube: frequently asked questions
Can I still eat with a PEG tube?
It depends on why the tube was placed. Some people can eat small amounts safely alongside tube feeding, while others rely on it entirely. Your team, including a speech and language therapist, will advise.
Is a PEG tube permanent?
Not always. It can be temporary while someone recovers the ability to eat, or longer term. If no longer needed, it can be removed, and the small opening usually closes on its own.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
Building patient-education content for procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams and learners.