Oesophageal mucosal tears caused by suboptimal nasogastric tube insertion: a case study

Abstract

Oesophageal bezoars are one of the many causes of nasogastric tube obstruction; however, they are extremely rare and, therefore, not often considered to be the cause of a blockage. A bezoar is a solid mass of indigestible material that accumulates in the digestive tract. After a blockage is identified, the nasogastric tube is usually removed and another one inserted. However, this can be dangerous and can easily cause tearing of the oesophageal mucosa, bleeding, and other serious complications. In this article, the authors present a case of nasogastric tube obstruction caused by oesophageal bezoars. After the nasogastric tube was replaced, the patient experienced two tears of the oesophageal mucosa. This article highlights the importance of the introduction of a procedure for nurses to follow in cases of nasogastric tube obstruction, bearing in mind the possibility of the presence of oesophageal bezoars. If necessary, a gastroscope should be used to ensure safe insertion of the nasogastric tube and prevent oesophageal mucosal tears.