Nasogastric decompression in small bowel obstruction

Abstract Aim The aim of this study is to review the surgeon’s compliance and efficacy of nasogastric decompression in management of small bowel obstruction. Method This is a retrospective 6 months study from 1st January 2020 to 30th June 2020. Results 73 patients were managed for SBO during this period. Adhesions (43.8%) was identified as the most common cause of small bowel obstruction followed by hernias (27.4%). 51 (70%) patients had nasogastric decompression planned on admission, although there was history of vomiting in 85% of patients at admission. Forty two patients (58%) had nasogastric decompression. Majority (71%) of these patients had NG inserted within 24 hours, only 2 of these patients had it inserted on admission. Of the 44 patients managed conservatively for their SBO, 19 had NG decompression. Two patients died during admission (both managed with palliative intent). Conclusion The routine use of nasogastric decompression in SBO is still common despite the lack of randomized control trial. Its use is associated with an increase in duration of hospital stay. Although the optimal timing of placement of NG tube is not known, our study shows that placement within 6 hours of admission may shorten the duration of hospital stay.