The “Why” of PEG replacement can be divided into scheduled vs. unscheduled PEG replacement. Scheduled replacement occurs when the PEG is replaced before any significant deterioration or complication resulting in malfunction of the existing PEG has occurred. Scheduled PEG replacement is the preferred and most common form of PEG replacement (Table 1).

If you have difficulty managing or holding layers of clothing when you go to the toilet, consider alternative ways of temporarily securing your clothes. There is equipment for this (for example a Pants aid) but you may find it easier to sew discrete loops and buttons to hold layers out of the waySmooth, slippery fabrics are usually easier to get on and off, as they glide easily over your skin or other layers of clothing

It is possible to make adaptations to your existing clothes. Listed here are some suggestions on how some difficulties can be overcome by relatively simple adaptations. Lee C, Kang H, Lim Y, et al. Comparison of complications between endoscopic and percutaneous replacement of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes. J Korean Med Sci. 2013;28(12):1781-7.Before going to the operating theatre, you will meet the doctor who will explain the operation in detail, discuss any worries you may have and ask you or your child to give permission for the operation by signing a consent form. Khoury T, Daher S, Yaari S, et al. To Pull or to Scope: A Prospective Safety and Cost-effectiveness of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube Replacement Methods. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2019;53(1):e37-e40. Unlike gastrostomy tubes and buttons, GJ devices should not be rotated as this could move the position of the tube in the jejunum and cause kinks in the tubing. When it’s time for your procedure, you will be brought into the procedure room and helped onto an exam table. You will be attached to equipment to monitor your heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. You will also receive oxygen through your nose. Your nurse will place a mouth guard over your teeth to protect them. We may give you a spare nasogastric tube or gastrostomy device to take home with you. If the device falls out, you will need to insert the spare tube or device into the opening straight away - otherwise, it will close. The nurse will advise you about when it is safe to do this.