Early feeding after PEG tube placement in ICU patients

A Randomized Controlled Trial to Reduce Periprocedural Fasting in Ventilated Trauma and Surgical Intensive Care Patients

Not applicable Interventional Carilion Clinic · NCT04110613

This study is testing if starting feeding right after a PEG tube is placed can help critically ill patients in the ICU get better nutrition and recover faster.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorCarilion Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Roanoke, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT04110613 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial aims to determine the optimal timing for initiating enteral feeding after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement in mechanically ventilated trauma and surgical ICU patients. The study addresses the high risk of malnutrition in these patients by comparing outcomes of starting tube feeds within one hour of the procedure against standard practices. By minimizing interruptions in enteral nutrition, the trial seeks to reduce caloric deficits and associated complications. The findings could provide evidence-based guidelines for improving nutritional support in critical care settings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adult patients over 18 years old who are mechanically ventilated and require PEG tube placement.

Not a fit: Patients with gastrointestinal motility disorders or feeding intolerance prior to the PEG procedure may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery and reduce complications related to malnutrition in critically ill patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in reducing caloric deficits through timely enteral nutrition interventions in ICU populations, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult subjects over 18 years of age
* Negative pregnancy test for women participants of child-bearing age
* Mechanically ventilated surgical and trauma patients with clinical indication for PEG tube placement
* Tolerating tube feeds at goal prior to procedure

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with aberant gastrointestinal anatomy
* Patients with gastrointestinal motility disorders
* Patients with feeding intolerance prior to PEG tube procedure
* Pregnant women, children, or other vulnerable populations
* Clinical contraindications for PEG tube placement
* PEG performed in setting other than ICU at bedside

Where this trial is running

Roanoke, Virginia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Critical IllnessMalnutritionGastrostomyProcedural SequelaeTraumaSurgeryMechanical Ventilation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.