The nasogastric tube is anchored to a flexible nasendoscope using sodium alginate dressing ties. The nasendoscope is then passed into the upper oesophagus, along with the nasogastric tube. Once the nasogastric tube has passed the cricopharyngeus, gentle traction on the nasendoscope releases it from the nasogastric tube. The nasendoscope can then be withdrawn. A previous safety study of sodium alginate ingestion showed no adverse effects.