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Effect of nasogastric tubes on eustachian tube function
M Wake1, D E McCullough, J D Binnington
1Dudley Road Hospital, Birmingham.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Nasogastric Ryles tubes can impair Eustachian tube function, leading to temporary changes in middle ear pressure and tympanic membrane appearance. This previously unreported dysfunction highlights a potential complication of prolonged nasogastric tube use.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Devices
- Physiology
Background:
- The Eustachian tube regulates middle ear pressure and clears secretions.
- Eustachian tube function can be objectively measured using tympanometry.
- Nasogastric Ryles tubes are commonly used post-operatively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of nasogastric Ryles tubes on Eustachian tube function.
- To identify and characterize nasogastric tube-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Objective assessment of Eustachian tube function via tympanometric measurements.
- Observation of tympanic membrane changes during protracted Ryles tube use.
Main Results:
- Post-operative Ryles tube use correlated with reduced peak middle ear pressure (mmH2O).
- Reduced peak compliance volumes (ml) were observed via tympanometry.
- Transient changes in tympanic membrane appearance were noted with prolonged Ryles tube use.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged nasogastric Ryles tube use can induce Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- This dysfunction is characterized by altered middle ear pressure and tympanic membrane changes.
- Nasogastric tube-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction is a novel clinical entity.