The correct positioning and role of an external fixation device on a PEG

A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube (PEG) is the means by which long-term artificial enteral nutrition can be provided to patients. PEGs differ in design and length of use but have one device common to all--the external fixation device or boister. This is a small piece of polyurethane or silicone that is usually circular or triangular in shape. It encircles the PEG and is designed to anchor the PEG externally and 'prevent it from being pulled into the stomach' (Colagiovanni, 2001) (Fig 1).