Reflux and the aspiration of gastric contents have always been important focal points. Previous study stated that trauma is an important factor in aspiration pneumonia.
Often, emergency trauma patients have residual gastric contents due to the ingestion of food before injury, the accidental swallowing of nasal and/or oral blood after injury, and delayed gastric emptying due to stress, pain, or the use of opioids.
During sedation or general anesthesia, such satiated patients are often at risk of aspiration due to a reduction in lower esophageal sphincter tension and the protective inhibition of the airway reflex.
Perioperative gastric ultrasound can be performed at a bedside ultrasound unit; it can safely, non-invasively, conveniently, and effectively evaluate the fullness of a patient's stomach and the nature of their gastric contents.
It can also be used in the selection of an appropriate method for the anesthetic induction process and can reduce the risk of vomiting, aspiration, and related complications.
As a gastric motility-promoting drug, metoclopramide can accelerate gastric emptying.
Dexamethasone reduced the incidence of nausea and vomiting and improve gastric motility.