Effects of Covid 19 Pandemic on Peg

Background Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the preferred method for long-term enteral nutritional support in patients unable to maintain adequate oral intake. PEG candidates often present with multiple comorbidities and are at increased risk for complications. Because the procedure requires close patient contact, infection control is critical, especially during pandemics. This study evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PEG procedures and patient outcomes. Methods We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent PEG at our tertiary gastroenterology center during the two-year periods before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Demographic data, laboratory results, complication rates, and mortality were compared between the two groups. Results PEG was performed in 270 patients before the pandemic and 170 during the pandemic. Mean ages were 65.2 and 63.8 years, respectively. Cerebrovascular disease was the most frequent indication in both groups. Median survival significantly decreased during the pandemic (69 vs. 146 days; p  = 0.003). While complication rates remained stable, post-pandemic patients had a 1.46-fold higher mortality risk. Conclusions Although PEG-related complications did not increase, overall survival declined significantly during the COVID-19 period, likely reflecting changes in patient profiles and reduced care continuity. The C-reactive protein (CRP)/albumin ratio maintained its prognostic value for mortality. These findings emphasize the need for uninterrupted nutritional support and multidisciplinary management during pandemics.