Post-PEG feeding time: A web based national survey amongst gastroenterologists

BackgroundLiterature suggests early post-percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding is as safe as delayed feeding. No consensus exists regarding feeding initiation after PEG placement. We performed a national survey to assess current practice regarding feeding initiation after PEG placement as well as clinical and practitioner based factors associated with early or delayed feeding.MethodsA survey assessing feeding initiation in general ward and intensive care unit patients, current literature knowledge, motility agent use, number of PEG placed per year, along with physician demographics was emailed to 5256 gastroenterologists. Statistical analysis was done using SAS software (V.9).Results28% of gastroenterologists responded. Amongst respondents, 59% were private consultants, 25% academic physicians and 16% trainees. Private gastroenterologists initiated feeding earlier (≤12 h) compared to academic gastroenterologists in general ward and intensive care unit patients (p < 0.0001). Amongst respondents, 41% of physicians were aware of current literature on post-PEG feeding times. Physicians aware of current literature started feeding earlier (<12 h) compared to those not aware in general ward and intensive care unit patients (p = 0.0002). Male physicians instituted feeding earlier than females (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsFeeding initiation after PEG placement varies amongst gastroenterologists. Further studies are required to explore obstacles in standardizing post-PEG feeding practices.