"How I do it"--head and neck. A targeted problem and its solution: securing of intermediate duration feeding tubes

Area of Science:

• Medical Engineering
• Surgical Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Securing nasogastric tubes is crucial for intermediate-duration feeding.
• Head and neck cancer patients undergoing surgery face risks of suture line rupture during tube reinsertion.
• Existing methods may not adequately address these specific risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel method for securing nasogastric tubes.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this technique in patients requiring intermediate-duration tube feeding.
• To specifically address the challenges in postoperative head and neck cancer care.

Main Methods:

• A specific technique for securing nasogastric tubes was developed and implemented.
• The method was applied to patients undergoing procedures where nasogastric tube placement is necessary.
• Patient outcomes were monitored for complications and tube security.

Main Results:

• The technique demonstrated a high success rate in securing nasogastric tubes.
• No complications related to the securing method were observed in over 100 patients.
• No instances of premature extubation were reported, indicating effective tube retention.

Conclusions:

• The presented method offers a safe and effective solution for nasogastric tube fixation.
• It is particularly advantageous in high-risk patient populations, such as those with head and neck cancer.
• This technique minimizes the risk of mechanical complications and improves patient care during recovery.