| Gastric suction tube with pressure necrosis in the esophagus |
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Foreign bodies left in the
esophagus for a considerable length of time can cause
damage to the esophageal mucosa. The example shows the
endoscopic view of extensive pressure necrosis located precardial and in the
lower third of the esophagus
(left picture). They are caused by a gastric suction
tube for decompensated pyloric
stenosis. These ulcerations occured after 48 hours
of gastric suction and show a
complete healing 10 days thereafter (right picture).
The tube was made of polyvenylchloride. In our
experience silicon tubes cause
less damage to the esophageal mucosa and thus are more
suitable for continuous
gastric suction or enteral tube feeding. Tubes should
be removed as early as possible
or avoided in the first place. PEG is a good
alternative for continuous enteral feeding. |
Pressure necrosis