Nasopharyngeal perforation as a complication of nasogastric intubation.

We report a patient with nasopharyngeal perforation associated with nasogastric intubation. Diagnosis of the perforation was accomplished by roentgenograms of the neck and identification of the site by fiberoptic endoscopy and a water-soluble radiographic contrast agent. The extent of subcutaneous emphysema and lack of extraluminal fluid collections was documented by CT scan. Early diagnosis allowed for successful treatment with intravenous antibiotics.