Carol gets her PEG Monday. She hasn't been able to get her daily calorie intake due to her swallowing issues. But she hasn't lost a lb (yet) during the last few weeks. I have asked about the PEG in general on an earlier post, receiving advice and suggestions (thanks all) but I have a few more questions. If these questions have been answered during previous posts I apologize, I've been digging and haven't seen any. Time for an eyeball check?

How do they decide what size PEG to use? From what I have read here and on the net 16 FR and up is better to best. 14 FR is okay (not too convincing) and 12 FR too small. 16 FR would seem to be an ideal size for Carol's liquid, blended/pureed food and med intake. I'm thinking of post tx besides pre tx and in tx.

What is FR and the comparing of the number to an object size a lay person can relate to (inner diameter) for feeding and outer diameter into body)?

Where, outside from the Drs., can I find the 6" Ace bandage w/velcro? Wally World, Target doesn't have them. I haven't checked Walgreen's or CVS yet. The Ace sounds as if it has a HUGE advantage over tape and its issues. One less thing to contend with while Carol battles this disease.

What size gauze pad? Would it depend on size of the PEG tube (outer diameter)? Pre-slit pads seems to be a tad more expensive and the slits don't really fit the tube too well? I'm more than willing to cut slits myself to ensure a good (or better) fit.

The questions will be answered Monday but Carol would like to go in armed with some info. I am aware of posters views regarding PEG or no PEG, however Carol needs a PEG due to her swallowing problems that were occurring before she was dx'd. She isn't keen on the J-tube (?) even though it would help against aspiration. (She's had pneumonia and bronchial pneumonia in the past).

Just to let everyone know, you all ROCK!!!

Linda