How do you do intestinal decompression?

Answer 1

Intestinal decompression is relieving gas pressure produced when intestinal obstruction or paralytic ileus is present by placing a tube in the intestinal tract, usually via the nasogastric route.

Answer 2

Intestinal decompression is done by inserting the nasoenteric tube first. You insert the nasoenteric tube just like in NG tube. The nasoenteric tube have a balloon to be filled with Mercury. Three major nasoenteric tubes for aspiration and decompression are Miller-Abbott tube, the Harris tube and the Cantor tube. The passage of long tube along intestines is aided by gravity, weight of mercury and peristalsis. After tube is in stomach, have the patient lie on right side, then back (fowler's position) and then on left side to use gravity to position tube. Position of tube is ascertained by x-ray. Do not tape tube to face but coil loosely on bed. Position of tube and absence of telescoping of bowel from weight of tube is ascertained daily by x-ray. You can now suction the fluid and gas.

Usually, the tube remains in place until peristalsis returns, as evidenced by the resumption of bowel sounds and the passage of flatus.