Modifications in the technique of gastric lavage

A simple experimental model was used to demonstrate the effects of water temperature and mechanical agitation in removing pills during gastric lavage. It was nearly impossible to remove pills from an artificial stomach using room temperature water and no mechanical agitation, Using warm tap water and repetitive compressions of the artificial stomach, the pills were consistently removed with ease. We recommend that gastric lavage for poisoning victims include two phases, the first using traditional lavage technique, and the second using larger aliquots, warm lavage fluid, and massage of the epigastrium.