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Nasogastric decompression after total gastrectomy
Soner Akbaba1, Cuneyt Kayaalp, Metin Savkilioglu
1Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Turkey Yuksek Ihtisas Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.
Hepato-Gastroenterology
|November 10, 2004
Summary
Omitting nasogastric decompression after esophagojejunostomy in total gastrectomy patients is safe. This approach reduces postoperative fever, pulmonary issues, and improves patient comfort by decreasing sore throat and nausea.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Routine nasogastric decompression is standard after total gastrectomy with esophagojejunostomy.
- Evidence is lacking regarding its necessity for esophageal anastomosis outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of omitting nasogastric decompression on postoperative outcomes after total gastrectomy with esophagojejunostomy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 66 gastric cancer patients undergoing total gastrectomy and esophagojejunostomy.
- Patients were randomized into two groups: with and without nasogastric decompression.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in overall postoperative complications, vomiting, distention, belching, hiccupping, or dysphagia.
- The no-tube group experienced significantly less sore throat (22% vs 100%) and trends towards less nausea, fever, and pulmonary complications.
- Oral feeding initiation and hospital stay were comparable between groups.
Conclusions:
- Omission of nasogastric decompression is safe and does not increase complications after total gastrectomy with esophagojejunostomy.
- It may reduce postoperative fever, pulmonary issues, sore throat, and nausea, enhancing patient comfort.
- Routine nasogastric tube use is not recommended in this patient population.