PEG Tube Weaning



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FAQ

  • Will I begin eating food right away?

Likely, yes. In the absence of most complexities a return to a diet can be swift, despite the need to use a variety of strategies to maintain safety while eating. This also includes diet texture changes which can make food easier to tolerate.

  • If I have a complex diagnosis, will I need a doctor to sign off on beginning foods?

Yes! In all cases involving a PEG tube placement, the history leading up to such a procedure – as well as the following trajectory of treatments – is absolutely necessary. If your gastroenterologist or oncologist holds concerns about oral feeding or advancing textures, we will work alongside them to find a better time or condition for such a treatment.

  • Could I get aspiration pneumonia?

With all dysphagia interventions, the goal is to prevent aspiration and complications that derive from it. While we can never guarantee that you won’t have an aspiration event, we do work closely with you to ensure you know how to reduce the risks of choking or aspirating, know the signs to look for, and how to follow up if you do experience such an event.

PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastronomy) tubes are inserted into the abdomen as a means of making a port for non-oral feeding. This procedure is typically completed when a patient has lost some or all of their ability to swallow safely. With non-oral feeding, hydration and nutrition may be sustained.

The Program

PEG tube weaning typically begins when the patient has stabilized enough to begin trial intakes of foods and drinks by mouth. Depending on the severity of the swallowing disorder, treatment may begin with only salivary management and oropharyngeal exercise. Because this type of treatment is very individualized, the program does not have a specified time limit. However, a patient who begins this type of treatment should be prepared for several months of work towards feeling “normal” again.

AM I a candidate

You may be a candidate for this therapy if you have a PEG tube or are receiving another form of non-oral feeding. Complications to candidacy present if you are undergoing radiation, have had any form of surgical changes to the throat or larynx, have complex gastrointestinal issues, or any malformation of oral structures.

Coverage

This treatment may be covered by out-of-pocket payments or through supported insurances.