Abstract: A system for detecting the location of an exit point of an object in a person's body includes a feeding tube, and a light source configured to generate light coupled to a light transmitting element. The light transmitting element transmits the light through an exit point. A light source sensor detects the light and a signal is generated indicating the detection of the light. A method for using the system includes inserting a feeding tube into a patient and generating light that is transmitted to an exit point. Detecting light transmitted from the exit point and generating an indicator signal as a function of the detected light.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for detecting the position of a feeding tube in a patient's body. A feeding tube having a light source sensor is inserted into a patient. A light is generated over the body of a patient. When the light source sensor detects the presence of the light, a signal is generated. In certain embodiments, the signal may be based upon the intensity of the light perceived at the light source sensor. Certain embodiments provide systems and methods comprising a feeding tube having a proximity sensor target. A detector having a proximity sensor is moved externally about a patient's body such that, when the sensor detects the proximity sensor target of the feeding tube, the proximity sensor produces an indication signal.