Knotted Nasogastric Tube Removed With a Bronchoscope

Nasogastric (NG) tube insertion is a routine procedure performed for a variety of indications, such as delivering enteral nutrition. NG tubes can be associated with complications, including knotting of the tube. The case of a 68-year-old who was admitted to the hospital for AIDS complicated by septic shock is presented. The patient received an NG tube to provide enteral nutrition, which was subsequently found to be clogged. An X-ray of the pharynx revealed a knot at the distal end of the NG tube. The knotted NG tube was removed with a fiberoptic bronchoscope through the nostril. The knotting of an NG tube is a rare complication. Clinicians should be aware of alternative methods of removing knotted NG tubes, including the use of a fiberoptic bronchoscope.