What is a necessary step when choosing a site for PEG placement?

When selecting a site for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement, insufflating the stomach and palpating the abdominal wall are essential steps. Insufflation allows for the expansion of the stomach, making its location clearer and providing a better view during the endoscopic procedure. By palpating the abdominal wall, the clinician can identify anatomical landmarks and ensure that the proposed insertion site is not overlying significant structures, such as major vessels or organs. This step helps to minimize complications during the procedure, ensuring that the PEG tube can be placed accurately and safely.

This particular method aligns with the best practices in endoscopic surgery, ensuring a safer approach to PEG placement. Other considerations in the selection process might involve clinical assessments and patient parameters but are less directly focused on the immediate procedural safety and accuracy than the insufflation and palpation technique.