What is the rate of occurrence for peristomal infection when PEG tubes are placed?

• A. 15%
• B. 30%
• C. 5%
• D. 50%

Answer: (B)

Peristomal infection after PEG placement reflects how often the skin around the stoma becomes infected in the early post-procedure period. This complication is relatively common, with studies showing incidence generally in the 10–30% range and many reports clustering around 30%. Therefore, 30% is the best representation for typical clinical experience, recognizing that exact rates vary depending on how infection is defined and the length of follow-up. In other words, about one in three patients may develop a peristomal infection within the first week or two, though stricter criteria or shorter follow-up can yield lower figures.