Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. What are the benefits, what are the risks?

PreviewPlacing a feeding tube directly into the stomach through a small incision with the aid of endoscopy is often preferable to surgical gastrostomy or the use of a nasogastric tube. However, the benefits, risks, and contraindications have to be carefully considered in the context of each patient's disease, needs, and prognosis. The authors describe patient selection, tube placement, and feeding techniques that minimize the risk of complications.