[Indication and effectiveness of endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy as a route of parenteral alimentation for the home care patient]. 
We are managing 8 home care patients who have a gastrostomy made using an endoscopic percutaneous technique as a route of parenteral alimentation.  Based on our experience, the preconditions for an endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy as a route of parenteral alimentation are 1.  normal gastrointestinal function, 2.  difficulty in swallowing, 3.  possibility that the caregiver can manage the gastrostomy.  When we performed an endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy as a route of parenteral alimentation for 8 home care patients, we obtained the several advantages mentioned below.  1.  Swallowing pneumonia was prevented.  2.  Adequate amount of alimental liquid could be infused.  3.  Patient could take a bath or shower with the gastrostomy, and good QOL was realized.  4.  The home care patient with the gastrostomy could have a satisfactorily long life.