Fluoroscopic insertion of post-pyloric feeding tubes: success rates and complications.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the success and complication rates of radiological placement of post-pyloric feeding tubes, including those inserted with the assistance of a guide-wire.


METHODS
Two hundred referrals (156 patients), between the dates of 5 April 2002 and 10 September 2004, were identified retrospectively from computerized records. Subsequently, the radiology reports and patients' notes were reviewed to evaluate the indications for post-pyloric feeding, success of placement, use of a guide-wire, and any complications.


RESULTS
A post-pyloric tube was placed in the distal duodenum/jejunum in 183 (91.5%) patients and in the proximal duodenum or distal stomach in six (3%). A tube could not be inserted in 11 (5.5%) patients, and 51 (25.5%) of the insertions required the use of a guide-wire. Immediate complications were recorded in seven patients (3.5%): vomiting (n=5); hypotension and apnoea requiring naloxone (n=1) and hypoxia requiring endotracheal intubation (n=1).


CONCLUSIONS
Radiological placement of post-pyloric feeding tubes has a success rate comparable with endoscopically placed tubes, and it rarely involves significant technique-related complications.
Thurley
P D
PD
Department of Clinical Radiology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK.
Hopper
M A
MA
Jobling
J C
JC
Teahon
K
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004739:England; D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006801:Humans; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome