Comparison of Three Techniques of Nasogastric Tube Insertion Without Instrumentation

Comparison of Three Techniques of Nasogastric Tube Insertion Without Instrumentation in Anesthetised Intubated Patients: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

This study compares two modified techniques(contralateral cricothyroid pressure and ipsilateral head turning technique) of nasogastric tube insertion in anesthetized and intubated patients with the conventional technique.

The insertion of nasogastric tube in anesthetized, paralysed and intubated unconscious patients may be difficult, with a reported failure rate of nearly 50% on the first attempt, with the head in neutral position there are many different maneuvers to facilitate the insertion of nasogastric tube published.

Our hypothesis is that contralateral cricothyroid pressure to the selected nostril for nasogastric tube insertion will be able to avoid the difficulty.

Therefore we are going to compare this technique with the conventional technique (head in neutral position) with lateral head turning group and contralateral cricothyroid pressure group We hope that the contralateral cricothyroid pressure will increase the success rate, as this will be helpful in intubated patients with neck pathology.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patient who is scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia requiring NGT insertion
• aged 20 to 70 years old
• with normal airway (Commack Lehane 1 or 2) and neck movements.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient who has nasal stenosis, nasal septal deviation, upper airway deformity, base of skull fracture, oesophageal disorders, coagulopathy, and pregnant.