Abstract
In this work, we aim to achieve low-cost real-time tracking for nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion by using a tracking method based on two magnetic sensors. Currently, some electromagnetic (EM) tracking systems used to detect the misinsertion of the NGT are commercially available. While the EM tracking systems can be advantageous over the other conventional methods to confirm the NGT position, their high costs are a factor hindering such systems from wider acceptance in the clinical community. In our approach, a pair of magnetic sensors are used to estimate the location of a permanent magnet embedded at the tip of the NGT. As the cost of the magnet and magnetic sensors is low, the total cost of the system can be less than one-tenth of that of the EM tracking systems. The experimental results exhibited that tracking can be achieved with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 2–5 mm and indicated a great potential for use as a point-of-care test for NGT insertion, to avoid misplacement into the lung and ensure correct placement in the stomach.
Highlights
The nasogastric tube (NGT) is a flexible rubber or plastic tube which is used for medical purposes such as treatment of ileus or bowel obstruction, stomach lavage, administration of medications, and delivery of nutrients [1]
We have previously developed a passive magnet tracking method based on two magnetic sensors, for tracking the magnetically inflatable intragastric balloon capsule (MIBC) [17]
The size of the magnet is small enough to fit inside the 14 French gauge (FG) (4.67 mm) or larger NGTs
Summary
The nasogastric tube (NGT) is a flexible rubber or plastic tube which is used for medical purposes such as treatment of ileus or bowel obstruction, stomach lavage, administration of medications, and delivery of nutrients [1]. The NGT is manually inserted through the nose into the stomach often without direct visualization of the location of its tip. Because the tube tip location is unknown, misplacement of the tube is relatively common and it can cause fatal complications [1,2,3]. Using an X-ray is an accurate method to confirm the NGT position since the whole length of the tube can be visualized. Subsequent clinical procedures are delayed due to the extra time incurred for patient transfer to the radiology room and for procedures of taking and interpreting X-rays. The delay can take away time crucial for feeding, hydration, and medication [4]. Most importantly, both pH tests and X-ray are only performed post tube insertion. Harm caused in the midst of the insertion cannot be detected/avoided
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