Gastric suction

Gastric Suction

Gastric suction, also known as stomach pumping, is a medical procedure that involves the removal of contents from the stomach through a tube. It is usually performed in the case of a person who has eaten or swallowed something unsafe, such as poison, and needs to get it out of their system quickly. This procedure can also be used in cases where the person has lost consciousness or is severely dehydrated. Gastric suction is a safe and effective way to remove ingested toxins or substances from the stomach, and is typically performed by a doctor or nurse.

Preparation

Before a gastric suction procedure is performed, a patient will usually receive a physical examination and any necessary medical tests. Blood or other tests may be administered to help determine the extent of any possible poisoning. The patient may also be asked questions about their medical history and any medications they may be taking. Additionally, the patient should inform the healthcare provider if they are pregnant, as this may affect the decision to perform the procedure.

Procedure

Gastric suction is typically performed in a hospital setting, under the supervision of a doctor or nurse. The procedure begins with the insertion of a plastic or rubber tube through the patient's nose and down their throat. This tube is connected to a vacuum source that is used to draw the contents of the stomach out through the tube. The stomach contents, including any ingested substances, are carefully collected and disposed of in a safe manner.

Types

There are two main types of gastric suction: nasogastric suction and orogastric suction. Nasogastric suction is the most common form, and involves the insertion of a tube through the patient's nose and down their throat. Orogastric suction is a slightly more invasive procedure, and involves the insertion of a tube directly into the patient's mouth and down into their stomach.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with gastric suction. These can include damage to the esophagus or stomach, vomiting, infections, and even death, in extreme cases. Additionally, dehydration can occur if the procedure is not performed correctly, or if the stomach is not emptied completely.

Why

Gastric suction is typically performed in cases where a patient has ingested a toxic or dangerous substance, or in cases where the patient's consciousness has been impaired. It is a safe and effective way to remove potentially hazardous substances from the stomach, and is typically recommended over other methods, such as inducing vomiting, as it is less likely to lead to further harm.

When

Gastric suction may be recommended in cases of poisoning or excessive drinking, as well as in cases of drug overdose or attempted suicide. It may also be used in cases of severe dehydration or to remove an object or object fragments from the stomach.