Inquest into the death of Karl Guy MEYERS

82y · Male·complications from multiple injuries received in a motor vehicle accident

Karl Guy Meyers, 82 years old, died from complications of multiple injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. He developed an ileus or pseudo-colonic obstruction requiring nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion. The key clinical issue was Dr H.'s decision to remove the NGT on 18 October, one day before Mr Meyers' death. Expert evidence disagreed on whether the NGT removal was appropriate. Professor Raftos opined that a large-bore NGT left in place would have prevented aspiration and death. Dr L. countered that the fine-bore tube inserted would not have prevented aspiration during the massive vomiting episode that occurred, and that clinical signs at removal did not warrant continued use. The coroner found that while aspiration risk was significant given Mr Meyers' age, immobility and GI dysfunction, the evidence did not establish to the requisite standard that NGT removal caused death. No criticism was levelled at the treating clinician. The case highlights the complexity of managing trauma patients with ileus and the need for careful consideration of aspiration risk when deciding on NGT management.