Objective: To present our experience with the indications and complications of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in head and neck cancer patients. Materials and Methods: In a retrospective study of the patients treated, we reviewed the records of 43 patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer at the Otorhinolaryngology Department, in which a PEG was performed by the Unit of Digestive Endoscopy. Results: All cases had squamous cell carcinoma. Larynx was the most frequent primary site, with 21 cases (49%), followed by hypopharynx, 12 patients (28%). Indications for PEG were: dysphagia (53.5%) and pharyngocutaneous fistula (43.5%). The most frequent complication was a local infection. Conclusion: PEG is a good choice for long-term enteral feeding in head and neck cancer patients due to its low complication rate and easy handling.

Keywords:
Enteral feeding, Head and neck cancer, Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
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© 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel
2002
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