Is Routine Postoperative Nasogastric Decompression Really Necessary

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Controversy exists regarding the need for nasogastric tube compression and the incidence of complications resulting from its use following major intraabdominal surgery. To determine the value of such tubes, 100 patients were managed after surgery with an nasogastric tube in situ until the passage of flatus per rectum (group I). In a 2nd group of 100 patients, no nasogastric tube was placed after surgery unless vomiting, gross distention, or overt obstruction occurred (group II). In group I, the nasogastric tube remained in place an average of 6 days and 5 patients required replacement of the tube after its initial removal. In group II, nasogastric intubation was required at some point after surgery in 6 patients. No aspiration pneumonia, nasal septum necrosis, anastomotic leak, or wound dehiscence was seen in either group. There were 3 wound infections in group I and 2 in group II. The most obvious difference was the increased comfort and mobility of the group of patients treated without routine nasogastric decompression (group II). Routine use of the nasogastric tube adjunct to patient care following gastrointestinal tract surgery may be saftey eliminated.