An introducer rod to facilitate the insertion of a nasogastric tube. The rod would be of a suitable stiffness to encourage passage down the posterior wall of the oropharynx and into the oesophagus. The flexibility would vary at different segments along its length in a way to promote correct conformation during transit, facilitating correct placement. The device would be thin enough to fit down the lumen of existing nasogastric tubes and be long enough such that it would protrude with adequate spare distance from existing nasogastric tubes. Variations aimed at facilitating passage may harbour a removable handle with lever system to enable movement of the tip of the introducer up and down, see figure 5. Use of either a light source, see figure 4 or presence of ferromagnetic material at the tip, see figure 6； may provide a method for confirmation of placement of the introducer and nasogastric tube. The introducer 'rod' device described herein allows passage of a nasogastric tube with higher chance of success on first attempt and reduction in the risk of trauma and complications seen through incorrect placement of a nasogastric tube. Additionally a metal detector may be use to detect the position of the tube.
