Gastric lavage, often referred to colloquially by a specific phrase, is a medical procedure involving the cleansing of the stomach contents. This is accomplished by introducing a solution into the stomach, typically via a tube inserted through the nose or mouth, and then removing the solution along with any ingested substances. This procedure aims to remove harmful or toxic materials from the stomach before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. It is typically performed in a hospital or emergency medical setting.
The procedure’s importance lies in its potential to mitigate the effects of poisoning or overdose. By removing the toxic substance, the risk of systemic absorption and subsequent organ damage is reduced. While the practice dates back centuries, modern techniques and understanding of toxicology have refined its application. Its use, however, has declined with the advent of other treatments like activated charcoal and antidotes.
