Case Series: Nasogastric (NG) Feeding Tube Misplacement in Critically Ill Tracheostomized Patients

In this case series we present 3 cases of nasogastric tube misplacement in tracheostomy patients. Although considered safe and it being a common procedure nasogastric tube misplacement can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. We present three cases of nasogastric tube misplacement in tracheostomized patients. One of the cases presented suffered from pneumothorax. Different time intervals between procedures in these different cases resulted in similar results. We would like to emphasize the importance of due conformation of correct placement of the nasogastric tube in the tracheostomy patient as well as to suggest that over inflation of the balloon securing the tracheostomy apparatus in place during nasogastric tube placement, might prevent misplacement. Nasogastric tube placement in tracheostomized patients has potential for serious complications. As such maintaining safe practice procedure is essential. Considering over inflation of the tracheostomy apparatus balloon might be beneficial as well, by preventing entry of NGT into the trachea.