Abstract
Purpose : Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is widely used. However, there are concerns with adverse effects caused by improper PEG tube replacement. The usefulness of a portable ultrathin endoscope through the PEG tube was evaluated. Method : Ten outpatients (males 7, females 3 ; mean age of 61 years), who were treated with PEG tube feeding, were examined with the portable ultrathin endoscope. The tube sizes used included 20 to 24 Fr (Bumper-Button type). After an air injection adaptor (FUJI systems Co., Tokyo, japan) was connected to the PEG tube, the portable ultrathin endoscope (portable multiscope FP-7RBS2, PENTAX, Tokyo, Japan) was inserted into the tubes and observations were performed in the stomach. Result : In all the patients, it was easily recognizable that the PEG tube and internal bumper were in the stomach. There were no complications caused by this examination. Conclusion : This examination using the portable ultrathin endoscope may be useful in patients requiring PEG tube replacement. It can be easily and safely performed even at the bedside.
