Aspiration after percutaneous gastrostomy. Assessment by Tc-99m labeling of the enteral feed

J Clin Gastroenterol. 1987 Feb;9(1):90-5.

Abstract

Aspiration pneumonia, a recognized complication of enteral feeding via a nasogastric tube, is considered uncommon with percutaneously placed gastrostomy tube feeding. We report aspiration pneumonia during enteral alimentation in a neurologically compromised but conscious patient. Aspiration continued despite changing the route of enteral feeding from nasogastric to percutaneous gastrostomy. Quantitative scintigraphic studies with Tc-99m-labeled enteral infusion demonstrated frequent episodes of gastroesophageal reflux and aspiration of gastric contents, which increased when the infusion rate was speeded up for nutritional replacement. Gastric retention also occurred at the higher infusion rate. Thus, percutaneous gastrostomy may not decrease the frequency of aspiration in patients at risk.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology*
  • Deglutition Disorders / therapy
  • Enteral Nutrition / adverse effects*
  • Gastric Emptying
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / diagnostic imaging
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / etiology
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / surgery
  • Male
  • Pneumonia, Aspiration / diagnostic imaging
  • Pneumonia, Aspiration / etiology*
  • Radionuclide Imaging