H.18 External device for securing PEG tube after placement

A PEG tube, or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube, is a medical device used to provide nutrition and hydration to individuals who are unable to take food orally or have difficulty swallowing. It is a flexible tube that is inserted through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach. The PEG tube allows for the delivery of liquid nutrition, medications, and fluids directly into the stomach, bypassing the mouth and esophagus. This method is often used for individuals with various conditions such as neurological disorders, head and neck cancer, or those who have undergone surgery and are unable to consume food normally. 

After a PEG tube is placed, it is secured in the body to prevent accidental dislodgement or movement. Pulling a PEG tube prematurely can pose significant dangers and complications. PEG tubes are secured inside the body with a balloon or bumper, and pulling on the tube forcefully can cause damage to the abdominal wall or the stomach. This can lead to bleeding, infection, or even perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, removing the PEG tube without proper medical guidance may hinder the healing process and require the patient to undergo additional invasive procedures to reinsert the tube.

The external portion of the PEG tube is then typically secured to the skin using a specialized device such as an adhesive dressing, a bolster, or a retention disc. This external securing method adds an extra layer of stability and helps to keep the tube in place. Dementia patients may have difficulty understanding the purpose and importance of a PEG tube, leading them to pull it out unintentionally. The cognitive impairments associated with dementia increase the likelihood of manipulating or tugging at the PEG tube. There is a need for better methods of securing PEG tubes once they are placed, particularly in patients who are unable to comprehend the importance of healing after the procedure.