G-tube Contrast Check: Transition from Fluoroscopy to Abdominal Radiographs
Author Information
Author(s): Hameed Muhammad, James Charles, Wong Kevin, Lewis Paul, Roberson Paula, Schmitz Kelli, Jayappa Sateesh, Rowell Amy, McVay-Gilam Marcene, Frost Todd, Springer Adam, Moore Mary
Primary Institution: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
Evaluate effectiveness of a new 2-view abdominal radiograph exam protocol instituted to provide 24/7 coverage at 2 affiliated hospitals and replace the prior fluoroscopic G-tube contrast check exam.
Conclusion
This new diagnostic exam performed well with high test yield, accuracy, specificity and negative predictive value.
Supporting Evidence
- 227 exams were performed in 186 patients over the study period.
- 2-view radiograph protocol was followed in 81.9% of cases.
- Reporting time under 1 hour occurred in 79.7% of exams.
- Overall test yield was 94.3%.
Takeaway
Doctors found a new way to check if a feeding tube is in the right place using X-rays instead of a special camera, and it worked really well.
Methodology
Retrospective chart review of G-tube radiographic exams performed between December 2019 and May 2022 at 2 hospitals.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on retrospective chart reviews and indeterminate exam classifications.
Limitations
The study is limited by its retrospective design and lack of documentation for some administered contrast volumes.
Participant Demographics
Patients included children undergoing G-tube checks, with demographic details provided in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.032
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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