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World Journal of Surgery
Published in: World Journal of Surgery 1/2007

01-01-2007

Is Nasogastric or Nasojejunal Decompression Necessary after Gastrectomy? A Prospective Randomized Trial

Authors: Nicolas Carrère, MD, Patrick Seulin, MD, Charles Henri Julio, MD, Eric Bloom, MD, Jean-Luc Gouzi, MD, Bernard Pradère, MD

Published in: World Journal of Surgery | Issue 1/2007

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Abstract

Background

Nasogastric decompression has been routinely used in most major abdominal operations to prevent the consequences of postoperative ileus. The aim of the present study was to assess the necessity for routine prophylactic nasogastric or nasojejunal decompression after gastrectomy.

Methods

A prospective randomized trial included 84 patients undergoing elective partial or total gastrectomy. The patients were randomized to a group with a postoperative nasogastric or nasojejunal tube (Tube Group, n = 43) or to a group without a tube (No-tube Group, n = 41). Gastrointestinal function, postoperative course, and complications were assessed.

Results

No significant differences in postoperative mortality or morbidity, especially fistula or intra-abdominal sepsis, were observed between the groups. Passage of flatus (P < 0.01) and start of oral intake (P < 0.01) were significantly delayed in the Tube Group. Duration of postoperative perfusion (P = 0.02) and length of hospital stay (P = 0.03) were also significantly longer in the Tube Group. Rates of nausea and vomiting were similar in the two groups. Moderate to severe discomfort caused by the tube was observed in 72% of patients in the Tube Group. Insertion of a nasogastric or nasojejunal tube was necessary in 5 patients in the No-tube Group (12%).

Conclusions

Routine prophylactic postoperative nasogastric decompression is unnecessary after elective gastrectomy.
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Metadata
Title
Is Nasogastric or Nasojejunal Decompression Necessary after Gastrectomy? A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors
Nicolas Carrère, MD
Patrick Seulin, MD
Charles Henri Julio, MD
Eric Bloom, MD
Jean-Luc Gouzi, MD
Bernard Pradère, MD
Publication date
01-01-2007
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
World Journal of Surgery / Issue 1/2007
Print ISSN: 0364-2313
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2323
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-006-0430-9

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