Infant Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy: Risks or Benefits?

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To present a single center’s experience with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement in infants. METHODS: Clinical records of infants who underwent PEG tube placement between January 2010 and December 2015 were reviewed. All patients underwent an upper gastrointestinal contrast study and an abdominal ultrasonography before the procedure. PEGs were performed with a 6-mm endoscope using the standard pull-through technique. Data regarding gestational age, birth weight, age and weight, days to feeding start, days to full diet, and complications were reviewed. RESULTS: Twenty-three patients were included. The most common indication was dysphagia related to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Median gestational age was 37 weeks (range, 24–41) and median birth weight was 2,605 grams (560–4,460). Patients underwent PEG procedures at a median age of 114 days (48–350); mean weight was 5.1 kg (3.2–8.8). In all patients but one, a 12-Fr tube was positioned. Median feeding start was 3 days (1–5) and on average full diet was achieved 5 days after the procedure (2–11). Six minor complications were recorded and effectively treated in the outpatient clinic; no major complications were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: PEG is safe and feasible in infants when performed by highly experienced physicians.