Fracture of a Nasogastric Tube in a Patient with Head-and-neck Cancer: A Rare Complication of Prolonged Use
Abstract
A nasogastric tube (NGT) is commonly used to deliver enteral feeding, medications, or for gastric decompression. Despite its routine use, NGT insertion may occasionally result in unexpected complications. We report a rare complication of NGT fracture in a patient with head-and-neck cancer. The prolonged use of the tube led to its fragmentation, which was successfully removed endoscopically. This case highlights the importance of routine follow-up and timely replacement of NGTs to prevent such adverse events.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Clinical Nutrition and Gastroenterology
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery
Intestinal and Peritoneal Adhesions
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Gastroenterology Hepatology and Endoscopy Practice
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 6
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 10–12
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN