Nasogastric Tube Syndrome: A Severe Complication of Nasointestinal Ileus Tube

We describe the case of a 78-year-old patient with this syndrome induced by a nasointestinal ileus tube. At administration, ileus was suspected based on physical examination and thoracoabdominal X-ray findings. A nasointestinal ileus tube was placed through the left nasal cavity. Three days after tube placement, hoarseness and wheezing were found during nutrition support team rounds. Upper airway obstruction was suspected and evaluated immediately with flexible laryngoscopy by an otolaryngologist. The nasointestinal ileus tube was removed. The symptoms decreased with prompt proper management. Immediate removal of the tube and early recognition of symptoms are the first steps in the treatment for this syndrome, in addition to the initiation of steroid, proton pump inhibitor, and antibiotic therapy. The cause of NGTS is thought to be continuous pressure on the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus. NGTS should be considered in patients with either nasogastric or nasointestinal ileus tubes. Early diagnosis and proper management of NGTS are important.Case Rep Gastroenterol 2023;17:191 –196
Source: Case Reports in Gastroenterology - Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research