Acute dilatation of stomach is not managed by -: (A) N/G tube aspiration, (B) Stop oral feeds, (C) Surgery, (D) Fluid and electrolyte balance
Answer is C. • This condition usually occurs in association with pyloroduodenal disorders or after surgery without nasogastric suction.
• The stomach, which may also be atonic, dilates enormously.
• Often the patient is also dehydrated and has electrolyte disturbances.
• Failure to treat this condition can result in a sudden massive vomit with aspiration into the lungs.
Treatment:
• Nasogastric suction with a large-bore tube, fluid replacement and treatment of the underlying condition.