What is the most common complication following gastrostomy placement?

• A. Peristomal infection
• B. Leakage
• C. Tube dislodgement
• D. Bleeding

Answer: (A)

Peristomal infection is the most common complication after gastrostomy because the stoma creates a persistent breach in the skin, exposing it to moisture, gastric contents, and bacterial colonization from both skin flora and the GI tract. This warm, moist environment around the tube is prone to irritation and infection, especially if skin integrity is compromised or if stoma care is poor, nutrition is suboptimal, or immune function is diminished. Clinically, you’ll see redness, warmth, tenderness, and possibly purulent drainage around the tube site. Management centers on meticulous local care of the stoma and surrounding skin, keeping the area clean and dry, barrier protection, and using antibiotics if cellulitis or deeper infection develops. While leakage, tube dislodgement, and bleeding can occur, they are less common than peristomal infection.