title: Use of nasogastric tubes in trauma patients--a review.
abstract: Traditionally, suspected basal skull fractures have been considered a relative contra-indication to inserting a nasogastric tube (NGT). In patients with basal skull fractures the Advanced Trauma Life Support protocol recommends that an orogastric tube (OGT) be inserted rather than a nasogastric tube (NGT). This article reviews the available literature. We conclude that in patients with suspected or confirmed basal skull fractures numerous case reports confirm that nasogastric tube insertion may lead to intracranial placement which, although the causal relationship is unclear, is associated with patient death.
authors.affiliation: Basic Surgical Training, Peterborough District Hospital.
authors.forename: E J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Spurrier
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Johnston
mesh_terms: D000075202:Contraindications; D006801:Humans; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019300:Medical Errors; D008889:Military Personnel; D020205:Skull Fracture, Basilar / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D014193:Trauma Centers