Attitudes of radiation oncologists to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in patients with head and neck cancer and eating difficulties: A survey in China

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the attitudes of radiation oncologists towards using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) to solve nutritional problems in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) undergoing radiotherapy. METHODS: A self-reported questionnaire was developed and used to assess the willingness of radiation oncologists from 26 hospitals throughout several provinces in China to use the nutritional method. RESULTS: Of the 433 radiation oncologists who were contacted and returned questionnaires, 361 were completed correctly and used in the study (83.4% completion rate). Years of working and degree of understanding PEG were significantly related to the willingness of oncologists to use PEG in patients with HNC. Radiation oncologists who were willing to accept PEG training were more willing to use PEG. Main reasons for unwillingness to use PEG were poor understanding of the operation or cost and fear of side effects causing medical disputes. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the survey suggest that attitudes of radiation oncologists in China towards using PEG in patients with HNC requiring nutritional support may be improved by providing accessible training in the technique.