A case of nasogastric tube perforation of the nasopharynx causing a fatal mediastinal complication.

Iatrogenic nasopharyngeal perforations secondary to improper nasogastric tube insertion probably occur more frequently than has been reported. Our review of the literature found very few cases. We report the case of a 79-year-old woman who died of mediastinal complications following the improper insertion of a nasogastric tube that resulted in a nasopharyngeal perforation. We also review the proper technique for inserting these tubes.