[Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. Is it safe to start eating immediately?].

Background: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a simple procedure with few associated complications. Traditionally, diet can be initiated 24 after the placement of the probe, but there is no information concerning safety with immediate feeding.

Objective: To compare safety of immediate feeding against late feeding after placement of PEG.

Materials And Methods: A total of 62 patients referred for placement of a PEG were assigned alternatively to start feeding during the first 30 min after the procedure was finished (group A), or 24 h later (group B). All patients received the same formula and remained hospitalized for three days. During follow-up, data for local infection and mild or severe complications were intentionally sought.

Results: Each group was composed of 31 patients; both groups were similar in age, gender, indication for placement of PEG, presence of infections, and use of antibiotics. Two patients of group A and six of group B developed local infections (six vs. 19%, p = NS value). Mild complications were found in three patients of group A and two A of group B (10 vs. 6%, p = NS). Severe complications were found in one patient of group A and two of group B (3 vs. 6%, p = NS).

Conclusions: Immediate feeding after placement of a PEG is a safe practice.