Effects of indwelling nasogastric intubation on gastric emptying of a liquid marker in horses.

This research examines how nasogastric intubation affects the rate of emptying liquid from the stomach in horses, showing that maintaining a nasogastric tube for extended periods can slow down gastric emptying.

Research Methodology

In this research conducted to understand the impact of nasogastric intubation on the gastric emptying process in horses:

• Six healthy horses were split into control and treatment groups. The scope of the study was prospective randomized crossover with a break of at least four weeks between trials.
• Acetaminophen was administered via a nasogastric tube in 1L of distilled water, at different time points to evaluate the gastric emptying rate of liquid.
• In the control group, nasogastric tubes were removed post acetaminophen administration, while in the treatment group, the tube was left in place for 72 hours.
• A 10-mL blood sample was collected from a jugular vein at strategic time points after acetaminophen administration.
• The concentration of acetaminophen in the serum was analyzed using colorimetric techniques.

Research Findings

Upon completion of the study, the researchers found that:

• The peak serum acetaminophen concentration was notably higher in the control group than in the treatment group, suggesting that the removal of the tube bolstered absorption.
• To reach peak serum acetaminophen concentration required a significantly shorter time in the control group than in the treatment group, indicating that extended use of a nasogastric tube can delay gastric emptying.

Conclusion and Implications

The research concluded that indwelling nasogastric intubation has a delaying effect on the gastric emptying rate of liquids in horses. Therefore:

• Veterinarians should be aware of the potential for delayed gastric emptying while using and maintaining an indwelling nasogastric tube over a long period post-surgery.
• Repeated nasogastric intubation rather than maintaining an indwelling tube may better assist horses with ileus, a distension and obstruction of the gut.