Gastrointestinal endoscopy
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Gastrointest. Endosc. · Jan 2003
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialDoes insertion of a rectal tube after colonoscopy reduce patient discomfort and improve satisfaction?
Distention of the colon is a major contributor to patient discomfort after colonoscopy. Some physicians and nurses believe insertion of a rectal tube relieves this discomfort and improves patient satisfaction with the procedure. This prospective, randomized, controlled trial assessed rectal tube insertion for reduction or prevention of abdominal bloating and discomfort after colonoscopy. ⋯ Insertion of a rectal tube after colonoscopy does not affect abdominal bloating, pain, or discomfort during recovery from the procedure or over the subsequent 24 hours, nor does it affect overall patient satisfaction.
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Gastrointest. Endosc. · Jan 2003
Comparative StudyEndotracheal intubation for airway protection during endoscopy for severe upper GI hemorrhage.
Aspiration of blood may cause significant morbidity during emergent endoscopy for severe upper GI bleeding. Endotracheal intubation is widely performed for airway protection in this setting, but there are few data regarding its efficacy. ⋯ Frequent use of endotracheal intubation for airway protection during EGD for upper GI bleeding requiring intensive care unit admission did not significantly change the relatively high frequency of acquired pneumonia or cardiopulmonary events, but may have prevented the rare fatal episode of massive aspiration. Endotracheal intubation may benefit selected patients with upper GI bleeding, but its specific role remains unclear, and alternative methods of airway protection should be investigated.