Feeding tubes serve as medical interventions for individuals unable to receive adequate nutrition, hydration, or medication orally. These devices provide a direct route into the digestive system, providing support. While “gastrostomy tube” and “PEG tube” are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct types of medical support. This article clarifies their definitions and differences.
What is a Gastrostomy Tube?
A gastrostomy tube, often called a G-tube, is a general term for a tube inserted directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. It provides a pathway for delivering liquid nutrition, fluids, and medications when oral consumption is not possible. Its purpose is to offer long-term nutritional support, bypassing the oral cavity and esophagus. The placement creates an opening, or stoma, from the skin directly into the stomach. Gastrostomy tubes are considered a more permanent method of enteral feeding compared to temporary options like nasogastric tubes.
What is a PEG Tube?
A PEG tube is a specific type of gastrostomy tube, with PEG standing for Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy, indicating its insertion method. Like other gastrostomy tubes, it allows nutrition, fluids, and medicine to enter the stomach directly. “Percutaneous” means the procedure goes through the skin, while “endoscopic” refers to using an endoscope. During placement, a flexible tube with a camera is guided through the mouth into the stomach, allowing visualization and precise tube placement through a small abdominal incision.
How They Differ
The primary distinction between a gastrostomy tube and a PEG tube lies in the method of insertion. A gastrostomy tube is a broad category for any tube placed into the stomach, while a PEG tube specifies the endoscopic technique used for its placement. PEG tube placement is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure, typically requiring conscious sedation and a small incision, with the endoscope guiding the tube. In contrast, other gastrostomy tubes may be placed through open surgery, involving a larger incision, or via laparoscopic techniques. Surgical placement might be chosen for specific cases or anatomical considerations.
Reasons for Use
Gastrostomy tubes, including PEG tubes, are used for various medical conditions that impair a person’s ability to eat or swallow safely and adequately. A common indication is dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, often resulting from neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Head and neck cancers can also make oral intake difficult due to tumors or treatment side effects. Other conditions include severe malnutrition, prolonged unconsciousness, or gastrointestinal disorders preventing nutrient absorption. In these cases, the tube provides nutritional support and allows for medication administration.