Esophageal perforation due to nasogastric intubation.

Abstract

Esophageal perforation is a rare but catastrophic complication of nasogastric intubation. Diagnosis is frequently delayed, resulting in high mortality. We report a case of perforation due to nasogastric intubation in an otherwise normal esophagus. Patients at high risk of this complication can be identified, and special techniques can be used to avoid perforation. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is an alternative to nasogastric intubation for long-term enteral feeding. When nasogastric intubation is performed, clinical tests of tube position are not sufficient to guarantee proper tube position. The tip of the tube must be visualized radiographically in the stomach prior to initiation of tube feeding. When perforation does occur, proper management is often controversial. Therapy must be tailored to each individual case for the best possible outcome.