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Is nasogastric suction necessary after elective colon resection?
American Journal of Surgery
|May 1, 1985
Summary
Routine nasogastric suction after colon resection may not be necessary. Patients not using nasogastric (NG) tubes after surgery showed trends toward shorter hospital stays and fewer symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Postoperative nasogastric suction is a common practice after colon resection.
- It is believed to prevent complications such as bowel distension and anastomotic issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the necessity and utility of routine nasogastric suction following elective colon resection.
- To compare postoperative outcomes between patients with and without nasogastric suction.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 118 patients undergoing colon resection.
- Comparison of postoperative variables between a group with nasogastric suction (n=83) and a group without (n=35).
Main Results:
- Few significant differences were observed between the two groups.
- Trends suggested shorter hospital stays and reduced abdominal distension, nausea, and vomiting in patients without nasogastric suction.
Conclusions:
- Routine nasogastric suction may not be required after elective colon resection.
- Omitting nasogastric suction could potentially improve patient recovery and reduce discomfort.