Stomach pump

Stomach pump or gastric lavage is a medical procedure that involves the mechanical or physical removal of the contents of the stomach. This procedure is often used in cases of poisoning or overdose to remove harmful substances from the digestive tract before they can be absorbed into the body.

Procedure

The stomach pump procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting by a trained healthcare professional. The patient is usually sedated or anesthetized to prevent discomfort and gagging. A lubricated tube is then inserted through the patient's mouth or nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. Once the tube is in place, the stomach can be flushed with water or saline solution, and the contents can be pumped out.

Uses

Stomach pumping is most commonly used in cases of poisoning or overdose, where it can help to remove harmful substances from the body. It may also be used in cases of severe gastroenteritis, to remove irritants from the stomach and reduce vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, stomach pumping may be used as a diagnostic tool, to collect stomach contents for analysis.

Risks and complications

While stomach pumping can be a life-saving procedure in some cases, it is not without risks. Complications can include aspiration pneumonia, caused by stomach contents entering the lungs; damage to the esophagus or stomach from the insertion of the tube; and electrolyte imbalances caused by the flushing and removal of stomach contents. For these reasons, stomach pumping is usually only performed when the benefits outweigh the risks.

Alternatives

In some cases, other treatments may be used instead of, or in addition to, stomach pumping. These can include activated charcoal, which can bind to harmful substances in the stomach and prevent them from being absorbed into the body; and antidotes, which can counteract the effects of certain poisons.

See also

• Poison control center
• Emergency medicine
• Toxicology