Predictors of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy-Related Complications in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A 19-Year Retrospective Study From a Tertiary Center

Abstract

Objectives: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that inevitably leads to swallowing difficulties as the disease progresses. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is recommended for optimal supportive management of dysphagia among these patients. We aimed to investigate PEG-related complications and risk factors in patients with ALS.

Methods: Medical records of the ALS patients who underwent PEG from March 2006 to February 2025 in a single tertiary care center were retrospectively reviewed. PEG-related complications and risk factors were assessed through chart review, endoscopic reports and images, radiological findings, and follow-up data.

Results: Altogether 501 ALS patients (262 men) underwent PEG, of whom 60 developed early complications and 82 developed late complications, including 11 patients who developed both. Pneumoperitoneum was more common in underweight patients (p = 0.004), and wound infection was more common in patients with pre-PEG ileus (p = 0.044). Multivariate analysis revealed that low albumin level, long procedure time, and ileus were significantly associated with early complications. Obesity and ileus were independent risk factors for buried bumper syndrome. Those with an internal bolster at the upper body of the stomach and with an external bolster in the midline of the abdomen were at significant risk of inadvertent PEG removal.

Conclusions: Albumin and body mass index extremes are predictors of complications, and care is needed when PEG is performed on patients with pre-PEG ileus. To reduce such risks, the PEG tube should not be inserted into the upper body of the stomach or the midline of the abdomen.

Keywords

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis / endoscopy / gastrostomy / risk factors

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2026 Chinese Medical Association Shanghai Branch, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.