where avoiding sedation is advantageous, such as in the case of bulbar pulsy (Laasch and Martin, 2007). Owing to a greater appreciation of anatomy during radiological placement, patients with surgically altered stomachs can also be considered for an RIG (Shin and Park, 2010). Initially, RIGs were secured with a ‘pigtail’ device which was 10–14 French gauge in diameter and prone to blockage and accidental removal; however, there now techniques available for the placement of balloon and bumper retained as well as low profile devices in RIGs. A recent article by Nauze et al (2012) demonstrates that while complication rates of PEGs and RIGs are comparable for both minor and major complications, RIGs are more prone to dislodgement and, therefore, endoscopic placement should be the first-line choice for gastrostomy. A new technique for placing PEGs endoscopically called the direct gastric puncture and gastropexy technique (often called PEXACT PEG) allows for the direct placement of the tube through the stomach wall, rather than pulling the gastrostomy through the mouth and into the stomach. This technique has had mixed reviews with some studies demonstrating lower complication rates and reduced stomal infection (Disney et al, 2012). However, a large study of 299 patients (Van Dyke et al, 2011) showed that this technique may lead to significantly higher complication and mortality rates in patients with head and neck cancer. Therefore