[Esophageal perforation and pneumothorax. Complications due to placement of a stomach tube].

Perforation of the oesophagus, as well as a pneumothorax are described as complications of the use of a nasogastric feeding tube. Clinical tests to determine correct placement are noted to be unreliable and the importance of radiological control, especially in the unconscious patient, ist stressed. The suspected diagnosis of oesophageal perforation should be verified without delay to immediately initiate conservative or surgical treatment.