Re-establishing patency of a small bore feeding tube with complete occlusion- A novel use for an ERCP catheter

Background: The use of small-bore nasoen-teral feeding tubes has become a common method to provide temporary access for enteral nutrition. Occlusion is a frequent problem, which occurs in approximately 6% to 10% of patients. A reliable, reproducible, and cost-effective technique to clear complete tube occlusion is needed. Method: A Glo-tip, 5-4-3 translucent TFE endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) catheter (Wilson Cook, Winston Salem, NC) was inserted into the lumen of a completely obstructed 12 Fr, 152 cm, polyurethane weighted-tip feeding tube (Endotube; Kangaroo Feeding Products). The catheter was easily advanced to the level of the occlusion, disrupting the clogged material, and flushed, relieving the obstruction. Conclusion: We present a novel, cost-effective method to clear a completely obstructed small bore nasojejunal feeding tube, using a biliary catheter. Copyright © 2001 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition.

Duke Scholars

Author Paul Simon Jowell Medicine, Gastroenterology