Insufficient evidence to support ultrasonography as a method to rule out an improperly positioned nasogastrictube

摘要

Context Nasogastric tube insertion is a commonly performed procedure in patients of all ages in a variety of settings. At present, a properly obtained and interpreted X-ray is the standard for determining correct tube placement. To reduce radiation risk and cost, investigators continue to search for bedside testing methods that approach the accuracy of radiography. The ideal bedside test would have high sensitivity and specificity and be easy to perform with minimal equipment. Specificity is especially important to assure that the method could detect an improperly positioned tube. A dreaded event is instillation of feedings, medications or diagnostic dyes via a tube inadvertently positioned in the respiratory tract. The study reported by Lin et al1 evaluated the accuracy of ultrasonography in determining nasogastric tube placement.