What is a gastrostomy tube, PEG/RIG?
A gastrostomy is a small feeding tube connecting your stomach cavity directly to the overlying skin. It enables you to receive food, fluids and medicine directly into your stomach when it is difficult or unsafe to use the normal route via the mouth. It can be put in via two methods: PEG or RIG. • PEG stands for Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy – inserted via a telescope down the food pipe. • RIG stands for Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy – inserted using X-ray guidance after having barium placed inside the stomach. Why would I need one? If, due to weakness of the muscles of the mouth and throat, you have difficulty swallowing food and/or drink/medicines, or if you are likely to have swallowing difficulties in the future, then this makes it difficult to eat and drink enough to meet your nutritional needs. Weight loss as a result can make an MND patient weaker and more vulnerable to infections. There may also be a risk of food and drink ‘going down the wrong way’ into the lungs, w
