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How to unclog a feeding tube in a dog | VETgirl Veterinary Continuing Education Videos

June 2017

In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education video, we demonstrate how to unclog a nasogastric (NG) feeding tube in a dog. Ideally, NG, nasoesophageal (NE), esophagostomy tubes (E-tubes), and gastric feeding (G-tubes) should always be flushed immediately after administration of medication or feeding. If in the event that the tube occludes, this VETgirl video demonstrates the old “Coke” technique. First, know that there’s a reason why you shouldn’t drink soda! The acidic nature of these drinks can eat through clogged feeding tubes! While it seems intuitive to use a large syringe to unclog a feeding tube, it is actually technically easy to deliver the Coke (or any type of soda) via a smaller syringe (e.g., a 1 mL syringe). That’s because studies have shown that you can actually reach higher pressure (measured as pounds per square inch or psi) with a 1 mL syringe versus a larger syringe. Simply flush the soda into the feeding tube, let it sit for a minute or two, and then flush with water. This is a very simple technique you can teach pet owners to do to manage clogged feeding tubes at home too.

Reference:
1. Hayward WA, Haseler LJ, Kettwich LG, et al. Pressure generated by syringes: implications for hydrodissection and injection of dense connective tissue lesions. Scand J Rheumatol. 2011;40(5):379-82.

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