Pharyngo-esophageal complications of Ryle tube insertion in neonates: management and fate.

INTRODUCTION: The following provides clinical reporting of seven neonates with iatrogenic pharyngeal trauma due to forceful untrained use of nasogastric feeding tube. A range of symptoms were observed beginning with excessive frothy secretions culminating in more severe pneumothorax in some. These cases are presented in the context of an exhaustive literature review producing only 50 similar cases worldwide. Special attention is paid toward accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and guidance on most effective modes of treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Using Medtronic flexible nasopharyngolaryngeal endoscope, examination of the presented neonates was done in the neonatal care unit. Some neonates underwent videofluroscopic study.
CONCLUSION: Ryle tube insertion in neonates could result in range of complications that could be easily avoided and managed.