Efficacy and accuracy of the transillumination-guided gastric tube placement in neonates

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Tumguide®, a radiation-free, transillumination-guided system for gastric tube (GT) placement in neonates. Study design This single-center prospective observational study enrolled neonates requiring GT placement. Tumguide® was used to guide placement. Primary outcomes were intragastric placement success rate and accuracy, defined as radiographically confirmed positioning not requiring adjustment. Results A total of 53 procedures were performed in 44 neonates. Median gestational age was 37.4 weeks, and median birth weight was 2 577 g. The overall intragastric placement success rate was 98%, with 68% accuracy. No adverse events were reported. Protocol modifications significantly improved accuracy from 17% to 84% (p < 0.001). Tumguide® maintained high accuracy across varying body weights. Conclusions Tumguide® enables accurate and successful GT placement in neonates. Its real-time visualization and compatibility with small-caliber tubes support its utility as a practical alternative to traditional methods.