[Use of a stabilization system for fixation of enteral feeding tubes. Comparative study]

Inadvertant tube dislodgement is a problem in confused patients. In 100 consecutive patients feeding-tubes were placed and secured with adhesive tape or use of a stabilization system. Duration of placement was significantly different in the 2 groups (tape-fixation 6.7 +/- 0.8 days, stabilization system 17.9 +/- 2.7 days; p less than 0.01). Inadvertant dislodgement could not be prevented completely but the stabilization system seems to be a simple alternative compared to invasive technics.