PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy) is an endoscopic technique to place a feeding tube directly into the stomach, providing safe, comfortable nutrition for people who cannot eat normally for a prolonged period.
| What | Endoscopic placement of a stomach feeding tube |
| Why | Long-term feeding when normal swallowing is not possible |
| Benefit | Reliable nutrition; more comfortable than a nasal tube |
| Comfort | Placed endoscopically under sedation |
What is a PEG?
A PEG is a soft feeding tube placed through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach using an endoscope as a guide. It provides a secure, long-term route for nutrition, fluids and medicines when eating by mouth is unsafe or insufficient.
When it is used
PEG feeding is considered when swallowing is impaired or unsafe for a prolonged period — for example after a stroke, with certain neurological conditions, or during treatment for head, neck or upper-GI cancers. It is more comfortable and reliable than a long-term nasal (NG) tube.
What to expect
The tube is placed during a short endoscopic procedure under sedation. After a brief settling-in period, families and carers are taught how to use and care for the tube, which can remain in place for as long as it is needed and be removed when no longer required.
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Last reviewed: June 2026Frequently asked questions
No. A PEG can stay as long as it is needed and is removed once normal eating is possible again. Many are temporary.
For long-term feeding, a PEG is more comfortable, more secure and less visible than a nasal tube, and it lowers the risk of tube displacement.
If swallowing is safe, some people can eat for pleasure while using the PEG for nutrition — this is decided with the medical team.
No. It is a short endoscopic procedure under sedation, not open surgery, and most people tolerate it well.
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