The use of nasogastric intubation in the radiological diagnosis of oesophageal atresias.
Correctly performed oesophageal intubation determines the presence of atresia. The physical properties of the nasogastric tube used determines the place of radiology in this diagnosis. The appearance of a curled tube (hoop sign) in the proximal oesophagus in the newborn is diagnostic of atresia, as it clearly delineates the oesophageal pouch. The performance of a contrast study to establish this diagnosis is never indicated, since it is impossible to eliminate aspiration completely.
Davies
M R
MR
Division of Paediatric Surgery, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg Hospital.
D004933:Esophageal Atresia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000379:methods*; D011859:Radiography