A Replogle tube is a medical device used in the treatment of babies with esophageal atresia It is a double-lumen tube which is inserted through the baby's nostril or mouth into the blind-end pouch of the esophagus. This avoids backup of secretions overflowing into the trachea (windpipe) and causing problems such as aspiration pneumonia Replogle tubes can be flushed regularly with saline and attached to suction to help remove secretions. Normally, a Replogle tube is used only for hours or days while the baby develops or awaits surgical intervention, but in cases where surgery has to be delayed a Replogle may be needed for weeks or even months.
References Replogle R. (1963) Esophageal Atresia: Plastic Sump Catheter for Drainage of the Proximal Pouch. Surgery 54: 296-297.
External links Great Ormond Street Hospital's guidelines on Replogle tube care