
This study hopefully will support the statement that it is safe to remove the nasogastric tube with signs of bowel function, without the need for clamp trials and thus avoiding any possible adverse outcomes associated with the trial.

Information in the literature appears divided in regard to aspiration risk. This, theoretically, places the patient at risk for aspiration and subsequent pneumonia. Regardless of the duration, the nasogastric tube is essentially stenting open the lower esophageal sphincter while it is left in place and not connected to suction. The duration of the trial and cutoff amount of residual drainage varies among physicians. Some physicians prefer to perform a clamp trial before removal of the nasogastric tube. These include flatus, bowel movements, decrease in nasogastric tube output amount, change of nasogastric tube output color from bilious (green) to more gastric (yellow) or salivary (clear/foamy) quality. Signs of return of bowel function can indicate it is safe to remove the nasogastric tube. The investigators were unable to find any literature that shows a concrete volume of nasogastric tube output that was deemed the maximum for safe removal. Both of these conditions are initially treated with nasogastric tube decompression if the patient is having emesis. Ileus is also a common complication in the short term post-operative period.

Lifetime risk of small bowel obstruction varies from 0.1%-5% if patients have not undergone abdominal surgery, but increases to 30% if the patient underwent a prior abdominal surgery. Why Should I Register and Submit Results?Ī high volume of patients are admitted to hospitals yearly for bowel obstruction/ileus complications.
