Real-Time Visualization of the Gastrointestinal Tract during Nasogastric Tube Placement: Pilot study of a New Video-Assisted System

Abstract

Background and aims: Nasogastric tubes are commonly inserted blindly, leading to complications. Existing NG tube placement assisting systems faced safety and cost-effectiveness issues. This study aims to evaluate a new assisting system using a camera probe inserted into the nasogastric tube to provide real-time visualization. Patients and methods: Thirty patients requiring nasogastric tube placement were prospectively included. The primary objective was to determine the success rate of nasogastric tube placement, while the secondary objectives included the assessment of the usability and safety of this system. Results: Our findings revealed a high success rate of 96.7%. The median time to complete nasogastric tube placement was 3.8 min. No serious complications were observed during the 7-day follow-up period. Operator’s feedback indicated this system helps facilitate nasogastric tube placement, identify the gastric mucosa and safety landmark, and ease of camera wire removal. However, image visibility received a slightly lower score due to gastrointestinal secretions entering the nasogastric tube through the side hole. To address this, air insufflation was used to enhance visibility in 13 patients. Conclusions: This video-assisted system provides real-time visualization of the gastrointestinal tract during tube insertion and has been shown to enhance the safety and effectiveness of nasogastric tube placement.