Nasogastric Tube Knotted Around a Nasal Endotracheal Tube in the Nasopharynx: Possible Cause

Anesth Prog. 2021 Jun 1;68(2):90-93. doi: 10.2344/anpr-67-04-01.

Abstract

A nasogastric tube is often used along with a nasal endotracheal tube during oral surgery or dental treatment under general anesthesia. Although the insertion of a nasogastric tube is a simple procedure, it can be associated with complications that lead to potentially serious consequences. The knotting of a nasogastric tube around an endotracheal tube is rare. Here, we report a case in which the nasogastric tube became knotted around the nasal endotracheal tube in the nasopharynx. We compare this case with 4 previous similar cases and provide a theory of how the nasogastric tube might have become knotted.

Keywords: Knotted; Nasal endotracheal tube; Nasogastric tube; Nasopharynx.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Intubation, Gastrointestinal* / adverse effects
  • Intubation, Intratracheal / adverse effects
  • Nasopharynx* / diagnostic imaging