View Full Version : Questions about the PEG Tube
julez
07-15-2009, 08:21 AM
Hi Ya'll,
My mom is probably going to go on the feeding tube soon, but had a few questions for those that have had the tube inserted:
(1) How long does the procedure last? How many days do you stay in the hospital? How long does it take for the sore to heal and the pain to go away? Can you start feeding the day of/after?
(2) Has anyone who has had the PEG tube inserted ever had the nissen/fundoplication surgery? Mom had that previously when the 3-4 doctors all thought she had acid reflux problems. I wanted to see if there would be any complications as she's had this previous surgery before, so if you have had both, can you please share your store.
Thanks!
Kim
joelc
07-15-2009, 11:27 AM
It is an easy procedure. It takes about 5 minutes, first tube lasts up to 1.5 to 2 years. It is replaced, usually with a different kind that you easily change at home about every 6 months. There was no pain with mine and you can start using in immediately.
If you scroll to the bottom of this page there are several topics that discuss this in detail.
BethU
07-15-2009, 01:16 PM
Julez ... I was in the operating room about 15-20 minutes altogether. They do it while you are fully dressed, which is wierd. It was an out-patient procedure for me. Got there about 7, procedure at 9, home by noon. I don't remember any discomfort ... didn't take any pain pills ... and started using it the same day.
Sometimes people do have fairly minor problems, however, as with any invasive procedure, and some clinics keep people overnight as a general policy. Also, some people report a day or two of soreness.
I have not had that other procedure you mentioned. I'm not sure how that works, but I'm sure your mom's surgeon will explain fully how it may or may not impact the procedure.
Good luck to your mom!
asantiago
07-16-2009, 11:05 AM
Julez, my mom had to spend the night in the hospital after her peg placement, the hospital was concerned about pain interferring with her breathing but it seemed they made a big stink about nothing. She didn't really have any pain and it didn't affect her breathing at all.
She did have problems with breathing once she came home. She waited too long to get the peg and her stomach had shrunk a lot due to her inability to eat. Think how you feel after Thanksgiving Dinner, that's how she felt after every feeding for the first several days. It made it hard for her to breath, but once her stomach got back to normal size she was fine. Just an FYI, it could happen with your mom if she hasn't been eating much for a while now. We were alarmed when it happened because we didn't understand why she would experience breathing issues.
icecreamlady
08-04-2009, 11:38 AM
Julez,
Hi.. I'm 45 and was diagnosed with PLS in June. It has been nothing but test since then. I was sent to the Gastro dr. after I was saw the speech and voice doctor. I have problems with swallowing and have a horse voice…The Gastro. Dr. did three tests, and says that I need nissn/fundoplication surgery…
My question to the Doctor was is this caused by the PLS or is this something I have had? He is not sure. I believe it’s the PLS, it all came on the same time. I also ask if I get the surgery, will it just loosen up again if its from PLS? Not sure, was his answer… I am waiting to make decision. I see the pulmonary doctor next…
Was your mom able to swallow better after her surgery?
I am really confused…
How long ago did she have the surgery?
Thanks.
Lora
