INSERTION OF A SOFT SILASTIC NASOGASTRIC TUBE AT OPERATION FOR ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA - A NEW TECHNICAL METHOD

A new and simple technical method for insertion of a soft silastic nasogastric tube into the stomach in neonates born with esophageal atresia is described. The technique is simple, easy to perform, and enables feeding the baby through this tube a day after the operation. Our method is based on the principle used in insertion of Broviac-Hickman catheters, namely the use of a "peel-away sheath" through which the silastic feeding tube is threaded. We have used this technique in five patients with esophageal atresia without any complication. © 1992.