What is a common endoscopic procedure with high bleeding risk?

PEG (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy) placement is recognized as a common endoscopic procedure that carries a significant risk of bleeding. This procedure involves placing a feeding tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall, which requires careful manipulation of the endoscope and the insertion of a needle through the stomach wall.

The bleeding risk is heightened due to the potential for injury to nearby blood vessels, especially when positioning for the tube placement. In some cases, the gastroepiploic artery, which is adjacent to the stomach, may be inadvertently punctured, leading to bleeding complications. Additionally, individuals who may undergo PEG placement are often at higher risk for complications due to comorbidities or existing medical conditions, which can further amplify the likelihood of bleeding.

In contrast, other procedures referenced, like dietary assessments and routine surveillance endoscopy, typically have lower inherent risks associated with bleeding. Upper GI imaging, generally considered a non-invasive procedure using contrast and imaging rather than direct intervention, also lacks the direct trauma associated with PEG placement. Thus, recognizing PEG placement as having a high bleeding risk is aligned with the procedural characteristics and the patient population it often involves.