Factors associated with insufficient nasogastric tube visibility on X-ray: a retrospective analysis

ConclusionsHigh body mass index, male sex, and the absence of a guidewire inside the nasogastric tube at the time of chest X-ray are associated with a risk of insufficient visibility of the tube on X-ray. Patient profiles can be defined in which supplementary attention is needed when obtaining chest X-rays whose purpose is to confirm nasogastric tube positioning.Key Points•The quality of chest X-rays to confirm the positioning of nasogastric tubes in adults can be improved considerably.•There are several factors influencing the confirmation of nasogastric tube positioning on X-ray.•Defining patient profiles at risk for an insufficient visibility of the tube on X-ray will indirectly contribute to an improvement of the chest X-ray quality.

http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s00330-020-07302-w

Source: European Radiology - October 3, 2020 Category: Radiology Source Type: research