Introduction

Nasal Bridle provides a means of securing a nasogastric feeding tube in position to prevent accidental or intentional removal by the patient. We have used the device as an integral part of the nutrition service, since August 2005 as a means of improving nasogastric feeding and as an alternative to percutaneous gastrostomy insertion in high-risk patients.

Methods

Since starting to utilise nasal bridles, we had placed 62 of these devices between 1st August 2005 and 31st May 2006.

We prospectively audited all cases with regard to indication for nutritional support, duration of feeding and outcome.

In addition we compared 30-day mortality from PEG placement prior to using nasal bridles, using the data from 4 previous audits, to the mortality of PEG placements since changing our practice.

Conclusions

• Nasal bridle provides a safe and effective alternative to PEG placement for enteral nutritional support in both hospital & community settings.

• Using nasal bridles to secure nasogastric feeding allows the clinician time to assess whether the patient is suitable for PEG placement.

• Improved patient selection has led to a reduction in PEG mortality.

• The nasal bridle can also improve delivery of enteral nutritional support to patients who are unable to tolerate a non-secured NG tube and are not suitable for PEG placement (sepsis, dementia, etc.).

Donaldson E, Sharma C, Earley T, Shields PL. Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Royal Preston Hospital,

Sharoe Green Lane, Preston, Lancashire. PR2 9HT

PEG 30 Day Mortality Data

Outcome of bridle patients

Days Bridle In-Situ for Each Case

Indication for Nasal Bridle