Percutaneous enterogastric tube dislodgement in tetraplegics.
METHODS
Case reports describing abdominal complications following percutaneous enteral gastric (PEG) tube placement in three tetraplegics.


OBJECTIVE
The aim was to increase provider awareness of PEG tube dislodgement as a complication in tetraplegics.


METHODS
Spinal cord injury center, Veteran's Administration hospital.


METHODS
The charts of three spinal cord injured veterans with tetraplegia were reviewed for clinical presentation and radiographic findings supporting the diagnosis of acute abdominal complications following PEG tube dislodgement.


RESULTS
PEG tube dislodgement in tetraplegics can present with occult findings and lead to disastrous outcomes if the diagnosis is delayed.


CONCLUSIONS
PEG tube dislodgement should be considered in tetraplegics who develop even subtle abdominal complaints, especially if the injury is complete. Further assessment with computed tomography (CT) scans or fistulograms should be considered to help with decision making.
Hess
M J
MJ
Spinal Cord Injury Service, VA Boston Health Care, 1400 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury, MA 02132, USA. marika.hess@va.gov
Foo
D K
DK
D000007:Abdominal Injuries / Q000209:etiology*; D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000451:nursing*; D015898:Tomography Scanners, X-Ray Computed; D014728:Veterans