Nasogastric feeding

Nasogastric Feeding is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a nasogastric tube (NG tube) through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach to deliver nutrition, fluids, and medication. This method is often used when a patient is unable to consume food or drink by mouth.

Procedure

The nasogastric tube is a flexible tube made of rubber or plastic, and is usually about 60 to 120 centimeters long. The procedure for inserting the tube is called nasogastric intubation. The tube is lubricated and then carefully inserted through the patient's nostril, down the back of the throat, and into the stomach. The position of the tube is then confirmed by X-ray before it is used for feeding.

Indications

Nasogastric feeding is used in a variety of situations where oral intake is not possible or sufficient. This includes patients with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), those who are unconscious or semi-conscious, and those with severe gastrointestinal disorders. It can also be used in patients who need to have their stomach contents continuously removed, such as those with gastrointestinal obstruction.

Risks and Complications

While nasogastric feeding is generally safe, it does carry some risks. These include nasal and throat discomfort, nasal bleeding, and the risk of the tube being misplaced into the lungs instead of the stomach, which can cause pneumonia. Long-term use of nasogastric feeding can also lead to malnutrition if the feedings are not properly managed.

Alternatives

If nasogastric feeding is not suitable or possible, other methods of feeding may be used. These include gastrostomy (a surgical opening into the stomach), jejunostomy (a surgical opening into the small intestine), or parenteral nutrition (nutrition delivered directly into the bloodstream).

See Also

• Enteral nutrition
• Parenteral nutrition
• Feeding tube