Using ultrasound to assess gastric contents in critically ill patients receiving enteral nutrition

Reaching a Caloric Goal Using a Gastric Sonar Versus Aspiration of Gastric Contents in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Nasogastric Enteral Nutrition - Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · Meir Medical Center · NCT06557629

This study is testing if using ultrasound to check stomach contents can help critically ill patients on feeding tubes reach their nutritional goals better than the usual method of suctioning.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorMeir Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Kfar Saba)
Trial IDNCT06557629 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of using ultrasound to assess gastric residual volume (GRV) in critically ill patients receiving enteral nutrition through a nasogastric tube. The aim is to determine if this method can improve the rate at which patients reach their caloric goals compared to traditional aspiration techniques. By addressing enteral nutrition intolerance, which is common in intensive care settings, the study seeks to enhance patient outcomes and resource utilization. The study focuses on adult patients in intensive care who are experiencing delayed gastric emptying.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adult patients in intensive care receiving enteral nutrition via nasogastric tube.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have a history of gastric surgery, or are receiving parenteral nutrition may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved nutritional delivery and outcomes for critically ill patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ultrasound for gastric assessment is emerging, this specific approach has not been extensively tested in similar studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Adult intensive care patients who recieve enteral nutrition via nasogastric tube -

Exclusion Criteria: 1. Pregnant patient 2. History of bariatric or other gastric surgery 3. Post-operative patients with sub-costal incision 4. Diaphragmatic hernia 5. Patients who recieve parenteral nutrition 6. Technically difficult US exam

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Where this trial is running

Kfar Saba

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Enteral Nutrition Intolerance in Critically Ill Patients

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.