Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether initiating enteral nutrition within 24 hours after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) insertion, compared to initiation after 24 hours, results in any difference in the risk of complications.
Methods: Nine databases were searched for relevant literature, and the selected studies were critically appraised. Non-randomized controlled studies were evaluated using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-Randomized Studies (RoBANS), and guidelines were appraised using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II). The level of evidence was determined using the IDSA system.
Results: A total of three publications met the inclusion criteria (two non-randomized controlled studies and one guideline). Initiating feeding within 24 hours after PEG insertion did not increase the risk of complications such as aspiration pneumonia, bleeding, or insertion-site infection. All three studies were judged to have a low risk of bias, and based on the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) system, the final evidence level was “II” and the recommendation grade was “B.”
Conclusion: Early enteral feeding, initiated within 24 hours of PEG insertion, does not elevate the risk of common complications. This can shorten unnecessary fasting periods and provide timely nutritional support, thereby contributing to earlier recovery and shorter hospital stays.