Related Experiment Videos
Complications of nasoenteric feeding tubes
R E McWey1, N S Curry, S I Schabel
1Department of Radiology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425-0720.
American Journal of Surgery
|February 1, 1988
Summary
Nasoenteric feeding tube misplacement can cause serious complications in critically ill patients. Strict guidelines, including radiographic confirmation, are crucial to ensure safe and effective nutritional support.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Small-bore, silicone nasoenteric feeding tubes are vital for nutritional support in critically ill patients.
- Metallic-weighted tips and stiffening stylets increase the risk of tube misplacement.
- Misplacement can lead to severe complications, including pneumothorax and esophageal perforation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the incidence and consequences of inadvertent nasoenteric tube misplacement.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of current practices in preventing misplacement.
- To recommend guidelines for safe nasoenteric tube insertion and use.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 14 patients with inadvertent nasoenteric tube misplacement.
- Analysis of complications associated with misplacement.
- Radiographic assessment of tube position and incidence of abnormal placement.
Main Results:
- 1.3% incidence of radiographically detected abnormal tube position.
- Reported complications included pneumothorax, hydrothorax, empyema, mediastinitis, pneumonia, and esophageal perforation.
- Cuffed tracheostomy or endotracheal tubes did not prevent misplacement.
Conclusions:
- Nasoenteric tube misplacement is a significant risk in critically ill patients.
- Strict guidelines are necessary for safe enteral feeding.
- Recommendations include radiographic confirmation, limited stylet use, and precautions for high-risk patients.