Gastric suction
Alternative Names: Gastric lavage; Stomach pumping; Nasogastric tube suction
Gastric suction is a procedure to empty the contents of your stomach.
Why is the Test Performed?
This test may be done to:
- Remove poisons, harmful materials, or excess medications from the stomach
- Clean the stomach before an upper endoscopy (EGD) if you have been vomiting blood
- Collect stomach acid
- Relieve pressure if you have a blockage in the intestines
How is the Test Performed?
A tube is inserted through the nose or mouth, down the food pipe (esophagus), and into the stomach. Sometimes you may be given a numbing medicine to reduce irritation and gagging caused by the tube.
Stomach contents can be removed using suction right away or after spraying water through the tube.
Preparation for the Test
In an emergency, such as when a patient has swallowed poison or is vomiting blood, no preparation is needed for gastric suction.
If gastric suction is being done for testing, your doctor may ask you not to eat overnight or to stop taking certain medications.
How will the Test Feel?
You may feel a gagging sensation as the tube is passed.
Gastric suction Risks
Risks may include:
- Breathing in contents from the stomach (this is called aspiration)
- Hole (perforation) in the esophagus
- Tube may be placed into the airway instead of the esophagus
- Minor bleeding
Related Images
Learn more about Gastric suction
Reviewed By: Todd Eisner, MD, Private practice specializing in Gastroenterology, Boca Raton, FL. Clinical Instructor, Florida Atlantic University School of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Copyright 2011 A.D.A.M., Inc.
