From the Research
Gastric lavage is not recommended for phenyl poisoning due to its potential risks and lack of benefit. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2013 1, concludes that gastric lavage should not be performed routinely, if at all, for the treatment of poisoned patients. This is supported by other studies, including one from 2004 2, which states that gastric lavage should not be employed routinely, if ever, in the management of poisoned patients.
The risks associated with gastric lavage, such as aspiration, esophageal perforation, and electrolyte imbalances, outweigh its potential benefits in phenyl poisoning cases. Instead, treatment should focus on supportive care, maintaining airway, breathing, and circulation, correcting metabolic acidosis if present, and managing specific symptoms. Early decontamination with activated charcoal may be considered if the patient presents within 1-2 hours of ingestion and is alert with a protected airway.
Key aspects of treatment include:
- Careful monitoring of vital signs, liver and kidney function
- Management of complications like methemoglobinemia
- Consideration of hemodialysis in severe cases with high serum phenol levels or significant metabolic acidosis
- Avoidance of emesis, alcohol, and oral mineral oil, as they may increase absorption of the poison
Overall, the current evidence suggests that gastric lavage is not a recommended treatment for phenyl poisoning, and alternative approaches should be prioritized to minimize risks and optimize patient outcomes 3, 1, 2.