ESPEN guideline on home enteral nutrition

Feeding Difficulties and Gastrostomy in Dravet Syndrome: A UK-Wide Survey and 2-Center Experience

Background and Objectives

Dravet syndrome (DS) is one of the most common monogenic epilepsies. Alongside the core seizure and developmental phenotypes, problems with appetite, swallowing, and weight loss are frequently reported, necessitating gastrostomy in some. We explored the burden of feeding difficulties and need for gastrostomy across 3 DS populations in the United Kingdom. We document caregiver opinion and postgastrostomy outcomes, and provide guidance regarding feeding issues and gastrostomy in DS.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study was conducted; data were collected from medical records of 124 individuals with DS attending clinics at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, and Great Ormond Street Hospital, and from 65 DS caregiver responses to a UK-wide survey.

Results

In total, 64 of 124 (52%) had at least 1 feeding difficulty; 21 of 124 (17%) had a gastrostomy, and gastrostomy was being considered in 5%; the most common reasons for gastrostomy were poor appetite (81%) and weight loss/failure to gain weight (71%). Median age at gastrostomy was 17 years (range 2.5-59). Multivariate analyses identified several factors that in combination contributed to risk of feeding difficulties and gastrostomy, including treatment with several antiseizure medications (ASMs), of which stiripentol made a unique contribution to risk of gastrostomy (p = 0.048, odds ratio 3.20, 95% CI 1.01-10.16). Preinsertion, 88% of caregivers were worried about the gastrostomy, with concerns across a range of issues. Postgastrostomy, 88% of caregivers were happy that their child had the gastrostomy, and >90% agreed that the gastrostomy ensured medication compliance, that their child's overall health was better, and that quality of life improved.

Discussion

Feeding difficulties are common in DS, and 17% require a gastrostomy to address these. Risk factors for feeding difficulties in DS are unknown, but ASMs may play a role. There is a high level of caregiver concern regarding gastrostomy preprocedure; however, postgastrostomy caregiver opinion is positive. Feeding difficulties should be proactively sought during review of people with DS, and the potential need for gastrostomy should be discussed.

Progress and Clinical Applications of Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet in Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic intestinal inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology. Although the pharmacotherapies for Crohn's disease are constantly updating, nutritional support and adjuvant therapies have recently gained more attention. Due to advancements in clinical nutrition, various clinical nutritional therapies are used to treat Crohn's disease. Doctors treating inflammatory bowel disease can now offer several diets with more flexibility than ever. The Crohn's disease exclusion diet is a widely used diet for patients with active Crohn's disease. The Crohn's disease exclusion diet requires both exclusion and inclusion. Periodic exclusion of harmful foods and inclusion of wholesome foods gradually improves a patient's nutritional status. This article reviews the Crohn's disease exclusion diet, including its structure, mechanisms, research findings, and clinical applications.

Analysis of risk factors and development of predictive model for malnutrition in patients with traumatic brain injury

Malnutrition is a highly prevalent complication in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), and it is closely related to the prognosis of patients. Accurate identification of patients at high risk of malnutrition is essential. Therefore, we analyzed the risk factors of malnutrition in patients with TBI and developed a model to predict the risk of malnutrition. A retrospective collection of 345 patients with TBI, and they were divided into malnutrition and comparison groups according to the occurrence of malnutrition. Univariate correlation and multifactor logistic regression analyses were performed to determine patients' malnutrition risk factors. We used univariate and logistic regression (forward stepwise method) analyses to identify significant predictors associated with malnutrition in patients with TBI and developed a predictive model for malnutrition prediction. The model's discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility were evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA). A total of 216 patients (62.6%) developed malnutrition. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that pulmonary infection, urinary tract infection, dysphagia, application of NGT, GCS score ≤ 8, and low ADL score were independent risk factors for malnutrition in patients with TBI (P < 0.05). The area under the curve of the model was 0.947. Calibration plots showed good discrimination of model calibration. DCA showed that the column line plot models were all clinically meaningful when nutritional interventions were performed over a considerable range of threshold probabilities (0-0.98). Malnutrition is widespread in patients with TBI, and the nomogram is a good predictor of whether patients develop malnutrition.

Trends and challenges in home enteral feeding methods for children with gastrointestinal disorders: an expert review on bolus feeding delivery methods

INTRODUCTION

New evidence supports the benefits of bolus feeding for children receiving home enteral feeding (HEN). Current home methods of bolus feeding have certain limitations, particularly in mobile or restless patients. Therefore, innovative delivery methods have been introduced to provide more flexible methods of reducing feeding time and formula handling.

AREAS COVERED

This manuscript presents an expert review of the updates in HEN for children and the results of an online user experience questionnaire about an innovative new cap-based bolus feeding system. A literature bibliographic search was conducted on Medline via PubMed up to September 2023 to collect relevant studies. We presented recent evidence demonstrating a dramatic increase in HEN use among children requiring EN and its benefits on patients' nutritional status and quality of life. In addition, the article examined the clinical and social benefits of bolus feeding and current challenges in delivery methods. We described the benefits of the new system and its user experience.

EXPERT OPINION

The uses and indications for bolus feeding in HEN are increasing among children. However, there are still some unmet needs regarding traditional delivery methods. Innovative techniques can improve flexibility, reduce feeding time, and improve user experience and quality of life.

Acute Diabetes-Related Complications in Patients Receiving Chemoradiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer

Patients with cancer and diabetes face unique challenges. Limited data are available on diabetes management in patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), a curative intent anticancer therapy commonly associated with glucocorticoid administration, weight fluctuations and enteral feeds. This retrospective case-control study examined the real-world incidence of acute diabetes-related complications in patients with head and neck cancer receiving CCRT, along with the impact of diabetes on CCRT tolerance and outcomes.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with head and neck squamous cell or nasopharyngeal cancer who underwent definitive or adjuvant CCRT between 2010 and 2019 at two large cancer centers in Australia were included. Clinicopathological characteristics, treatment complications and outcomes were collected from medical records.

RESULTS

Of 282 patients who received CCRT, 29 (10.3%) had pre-existing type 2 diabetes. None had type 1 diabetes. The majority (74.5%) required enteral feeding. A higher proportion of patients with diabetes required admission to a high-dependency or intensive care unit (17.2 versus 4.0%, p = 0.003). This difference was driven by the group who required insulin at baseline (n = 5), of which four (80.0%) were admitted to a high-dependency unit with diabetes-related complications, and three (60.0%) required omission of at least one cycle of chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with diabetes requiring insulin have a high risk of acute life-threatening diabetes-related complications while receiving CCRT. We recommend multidisciplinary management involving a diabetes specialist, educator, dietitian, and pharmacist, in collaboration with the cancer care team, to better avoid these complications.

Adequate calorie and protein administration via enteral nutrition may contribute to improved 30-day survival in patients with solid tumors at nutritional risk

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer receiving adequate enteral nutrition (EN) have improved clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, discrepancies may exist between the amounts prescribed and received. This study aimed to investigate: (1) the receiving exclusive EN, (2) the relationship between inadequacy and unfavorable outcomes, and (3) the impact of inadequate EN administration on the survival of patients with cancer.

METHODS

This study included hospitalized patients with solid tumors who exclusively received EN and were evaluated using data extracted from electronic medical records. Nutritional risk was evaluated using Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS - 2002). EN adequacy was assessed from days 3-7 of hospitalization. Calorie and protein delivery by EN was classified as adequate (≥80 % of EN administration) or inadequate (<80 % of EN administration). Data were analyzed using dispersion and Bland-Altman plots, Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, and Kaplan-Meier survival curves.

RESULTS

A total of 114 patients were evaluated (63.9 ± 13.1 years of age, 67.5 % male, 32.5 % with head and neck cancer, and 86.8 % at nutritional risk). During the 5-day evaluation period, only 14 % of the patients received the mean volume, proteins, and calories according to the EN prescription. A relationship was observed between inadequate EN (<80 %) and 30-day in-hospital mortality. This result was confirmed by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (p = 0.020), which showed a survival benefit in patients at nutritional risk who received adequate calories and protein.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated significant caloric and protein deficits related with EN. Furthermore, adequate calorie and protein administration could contribute to improved survival in patients with cancer who are at a risk of malnutrition, however, randomized controlled trials are required to confirm whether adequate calorie administration could contribute to improved survival.

Clinical Practice Guideline for Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy

With an aging population, the number of patients with difficulty swallowing due to medical conditions is gradually increasing. In such cases, enteral nutrition is administered through a temporary nasogastric tube. Long-term use of a nasogastric tube leads to various complications and a decreased quality of life. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the percutaneous placement of a tube into the stomach, aided endoscopically, which may be an alternative to a nasogastric tube when enteral nutritional is required for 4 weeks or more. This paper is the first Korean clinical guideline for PEG. It was developed jointly by the Korean College of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research and led by the Korean Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. These guidelines aimed to provide physicians, including endoscopists, with the indications, use of prophylactic antibiotics, timing of enteric nutrition, tube placement methods, complications, replacement, and tubes removal for PEG based on the currently available clinical evidence.

Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Activated by a Left Ventricular Assist Device

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) represent the final treatment for patients with end-stage heart failure (HF) not eligible for transplantation. Although LVAD design has been further improved in the last decade, their use is associated with different complications. Specifically, inflammation, fibrosis, bleeding events, right ventricular failure, and aortic valve regurgitation may occur. In addition, reverse remodeling is associated with substantial cellular and molecular changes of the failing myocardium during LVAD support with positive effects on patients' health. All these processes also lead to the identification of biomarkers identifying LVAD patients as having an augmented risk of developing associated adverse events, thus highlighting the possibility of identifying new therapeutic targets. Additionally, it has been reported that LVAD complications could cause or exacerbate a state of malnutrition, suggesting that, with an adjustment in nutrition, the general health of these patients could be improved.

To push or to pull? A clinical audit on the efficacy and safety of the pull and push percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy techniques in oncological patients

BACKGROUND

The peroral "pull" technique and the direct "push" procedure are the two main methods for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement. Although pull-PEG is generally recommended as the first-line modality, many oncological patients require a push-PEG approach to prevent tumor seeding or overcome tumor-related obstruction.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of both PEG procedures in cancer patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive PEG procedures within a tertiary oncological center. Patients were followed up with the hospital databases and National Cancer Registry to assess the technical success rate for PEG placement, the rate of minor and major adverse events (AEs), and 30-day mortality rates. We compared those outcomes between the two PEG techniques. Finally, risk factors for PEG-related adverse events were analyzed using a multivariable Cox proportional-hazard regression model adjusted for patients' sex, age, performance status (ECOG), Body Mass Index (BMI), diabetes, chemoradiotherapy (CRT) status (pre-/current-/post-treatment), and type of PEG.

RESULTS

We included 1055 PEG procedures (58.7% push-PEG/41.4% pull-PEG) performed in 994 patients between 2014 and 2021 (mean age 62.0 [±10.7] yrs.; 70.2% males; indication: head-and-neck cancer 75.9%/other cancer 24.1%). The overall technical success for PEG placement was 96.5%. Although the "push" technique had a higher rate of all AEs (21.4% vs. 7.1%, Hazard Ratio [HR]  = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.9-4.3, p < 0.001), most of these constituted minor AEs (71.9%), such as tube dislodgement. The methods had no significant difference regarding major AEs and 30-day mortality rates. Previous CRT was associated with an increased risk of major AEs (hazard ratio = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.0-7.2, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

The risk of major AEs was comparable between the push- and pull-PEG techniques in cancer patients. Due to frequent tube dislodgement in push-PEG, the pull technique may be more suitable for long-term feeding. Previous CRT increases the risk of major AEs, favoring early ("prophylactic") PEG placement when such treatment is expected.

Teaching and learning strategies in Home Enteral Nutritional Therapy: Knowledge gains perceived by caregivers

Abstract Objective: to evaluate how different educational strategies contribute to knowledge gains perceived by caregivers of people using Enteral Nutritional Therapy. Method: a quasi-experimental study conducted in two stages: the first one included an interactive lecture class (LC) and the second was carried out in two groups: in-situ simulated skills training (ST) and reading of an educational booklet (EB). The caregivers answered a self-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge before and after the interventions; for the analysis, a generalized linear model with Poisson distribution was proposed and the comparisons were carried out using orthogonal contrasts. Results: the participants were 30 caregivers; evidence of a difference in knowledge between the t1and t0 moments is evidenced. The analysis of the final comparison about the knowledge gain between the EB and ST groups, according to Student’s t, evidenced an estimated difference of -1,33, with 95% CI (-4.98; 2.31) and p-value=0.46. Conclusion: knowledge was further increased between the t1 and t0 moments, when compared to the t2 and t1 moments in both groups. When compared, we cannot conclude that one of the groups changed more than the other in relation to moment t0 and t2; thus, the study evidenced the knowledge gain after all the educational strategies in both groups.

Current topics in pediatric enteral nutrition safety

Enteral nutrition is a cornerstone of nutrition support therapy in patients of all ages and across the care continuum. Safe delivery of enteral nutrition to patients is paramount. This review article will focus on current topics in enteral nutrition safety primarily in children including safety with home-made blenderized feeds, recent infant and enteral formula shortages largely due to formula contamination at the manufacturer level, and concerns with importing infant formulas.

Estrategias de enseñanza y aprendizaje en Terapia Enteral domiciliaria: adquisición de conocimiento percibida por los cuidadores

Resumen Objetivo: evaluar cómo las diferentes estrategias educativas contribuyen a la adquisición de conocimiento percibida por los cuidadores de personas que utilizan Terapia Nutricional Enteral. Método: estudio cuasiexperimental realizado en dos etapas; la primera incluyó una clase expositiva dialogada (CE) y la segunda se desarrolló en dos grupos: entrenamiento de habilidades (EH) simuladas in situ y lectura del folleto educativo (FE). Los cuidadores respondieron un cuestionario autoadministrado para evaluar el conocimiento pre-posintervenciones; para el análisis se propuso un modelo lineal generalizado con distribución de Poisson y las comparaciones se realizaron mediante contrastes ortogonales. Resultados: participaron 30 cuidadores, había evidencias de la diferencia de conocimiento entre los tiempos t1 y t0. El análisis de la comparación final sobre el aumento de conocimientos entre los grupos FE y EH, mediante la prueba t de Student, mostró una diferencia estimada de -1,33, con un IC del 95% (-4,98; 2,31) y un valor de p de 0,46. Conclusión: hubo un mayor aumento del conocimiento entre los tiempos t1 y t0, que entre los tiempos t2 y t1 en ambos grupos. Al compararlos, no podemos concluir que uno de los grupos cambió más que el otro entre t0 y t2; por lo tanto, el estudio demostró que hubo adquisición de conocimiento después de todas las estrategias educativas en ambos grupos.

Estratégias de ensino e aprendizagem na Terapia Enteral domiciliar: ganhos de conhecimentos percebidos por cuidadores

Resumo Objetivo: avaliar como diferentes estratégias educativas contribuem para ganhos de conhecimento percebidos por cuidadores de pessoas em uso da Terapia Nutricional Enteral. Método: estudo quase-experimental realizado em duas etapas; a primeira contemplou uma aula expositiva dialogada (AE) e a segunda aconteceu em dois grupos: treino de habilidades (TH) simulado in situ e leitura da cartilha educativa (CE). Os cuidadores responderam um questionário autoaplicável para avaliação de conhecimentos em pré e pós-intervenções; para a análise foi proposto um modelo linear generalizado com distribuição Poisson e as comparações foram realizadas por contrastes ortogonais. Resultados: participaram 30 cuidadores, observou-se evidência de diferença de conhecimento entre os tempos t1 e t0. A análise da comparação final sobre o aumento do conhecimento entre os grupos CE e TH, por teste t-Student, evidenciou uma diferença estimada de -1,33, com IC 95% (-4,98; 2,31) e valor de p de 0,46. Conclusão: ocorreu uma maior elevação de conhecimento entre os tempos t1 e t0, quando comparada os tempos t2 e t1 em ambos os grupos. Quando comparados, não podemos concluir que um dos grupos mudou mais que o outro em relação aos tempos t0 e t2; assim, o estudo evidenciou o ganho de conhecimento após todas as estratégias educativas nos dois grupos.

Establishing a disability-specific home enteral nutrition service in a paediatric tertiary hospital: Experience and outcomes

AIMS

The provision of Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) is a well-established support for patients, however, significant inconsistencies in funding result in financial burden for some healthcare services across Australia. Recent government-initiated funding changes prompted the development of a new HEN service for eligible patients with a disability, moving from a universal to more individualised approach to care.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study included patients enrolled on a newly established disability-specific HEN service at a paediatric tertiary hospital between July 2020 and February 2022 inclusive. Components of service development were explored including service model, clinical resources, information related to patient enrolments and costings for annual HEN requirements provided by dietitians. Retrospective quantitative data was collected from the Electronic Medical Record system and analysed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 362 patient enrolments occurred over a 21-month period, with an average of 17 new patients having accessed the service each month. Annual HEN supports were quoted at a median cost of $13487.94 AUD (2364.97-44170.92), mostly attributable to consumable requirements. Most eligible participants chose to receive care through the new HEN service. Supports were quoted >330% higher than previous fixed price allocations, highlighting the true cost associated with HEN care. Large variation in costings may be attributed to the diversity and complexity of patients.

CONCLUSION

Funding changes presented a unique opportunity to meet pre-existing resource deficits and enabled individualised access to HEN supports for paediatric patients with a disability.

Risk factors and natural history of bedside percutaneous endoscopic versus fluoroscopy-guided gastrostomy tubes in intensive care unit patients

INTRODUCTION

There is a paucity of literature comparing patients receiving bedside placed percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) versus fluoroscopic-guided percutaneous gastrostomy tubes (G-tube) in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting. This study aims to investigate and compare the natural history and complications associated with PEG versus fluoroscopic G-tube placement in ICU patients.

METHODS

All adult patients admitted in the ICU requiring feeding tube placement at our center from 1/1/2017 to 1/1/2022 with at least 12-month follow up were identified through retrospective chart review. Adjusting for patient comorbidities, hospital factors, and indications for enteral access, a 1-to-2 propensity score matched Cox proportional-hazards model was fitted to evaluate the treatment effect of bedside PEG tube placement versus G-tube placement on patient 1-year complication, readmission, and death rates. Major complications were defined as those requiring operative or procedural intervention.

RESULTS

This study included 740 patients, with 178 bedside PEG and 562 fluoroscopic G-tube placements. The overall rate of complication was 22.3% (13% PEG, 25.2% G-tube, P = 0.003). The major complication rate was 11.2% (8.5% PEG, 12.1% G-tube, P = 0.09). Most common complications were tube dysfunction (16.7% PEG; 39.4% G-tube; P = 0.04) and dislodgement (58.3% PEG; 40.8% G-tube). After propensity score matching, G-tube recipients had significantly increased risk for all-cause (HR 2.7, 95% CI 1.56-4.87, P < 0.001) and major complications (HR 2.11, 95% CI 1.05-4.23, P = 0.035). There were no significant differences in 1-year rates of readmission (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.58-1.38, P = 0.62) or death (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.70-1.44, P = 0.7).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall rate of complications for ICU patients requiring feeding tube in our cohort was 22.3%. ICU patients receiving fluoroscopic-guided percutaneous gastrostomy tube placement had significantly elevated risk of 1-year all-cause and major complications compared to those undergoing bedside PEG.

Nutritional support in palliative cancer care: quality of life in oral versus tube feeding

BACKGROUND

Nutritional support (NS) offered through oral nutritional supplements (ONS) or enteral nutrition (EN) and its impact on quality of life (QoL) is a controversial topic in patients with cancer receiving palliative care (PC).

AIMS

To compare the QoL of patients without and with use of NS, including ONS or EN in patients with incurable cancer receiving PC.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis with patients that were evaluated at PC Unit between June 2021 and February 2023. QoL was assessed using the Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 15. Patients were classified into three groups according to the NS: ONS (n=72; 33%), EN (n=61; 28%) and control group (CG) (n=87; 39%), the last one being formed by patients not using NS. Adjusted logistic regression models were used to verify the association of the domains of QoL with the type of NS.

RESULTS

A total of 220 patients were included, with a median age of 64 (58-70) years, predominantly male (54.1%). The EN group had worse scores in physical function when compared with the ONS group (p=0.037) and appetite loss when compared with the CG (p=0.013). The ONS (OR: 2.70; 95% CI 1.32 to 5.49) and EN groups (OR: 2.61; 95% CI 1.24 to 5.49) were independently associated with a higher chance of presenting appetite loss in relation to the CG.

CONCLUSION

In general, there was no difference in the QoL of patients using NS when compared with patients not using NS. However, patients using NS have more chance of having appetite loss.

Microbiological contamination present in enteral tube feeding prepared in hospitals and/or at home: a systematic review

CONTEXT

The safety of enteral formulas is important to restore and maintain the health of patients.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review of the literature was conducted to assess the microbiological contamination present in enteral tube feeding prepared in hospitals and/or at home.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search was conducted of the Medline, Scopus, BVS, CAPES/MEC, Embase, Science Direct, and SciELO databases and gray literature.

DATA EXTRACTION

Eligible studies that analyzed the contamination of enteral formulas manipulated in hospitals and/or at home were selected; a quality assessment tool was used.

DATA ANALYSIS

Twenty-three studies evaluated 1099 enteral formulations. Of these, 44.67% of enteral formulas (n = 491) exceeded the acceptable bacterial count. Samples of homemade enteral formulation preparations (86.03%; n = 191) had the highest bacterial counts, followed by mixed preparations (79.72%; n = 59), and commercial formulas (30.01%; n = 241). The number of samples of enteral formulations that exceeded the bacterial count at home was 70.79% (n = 160 at the hospital was 37.91% (n = 331). Total coliforms (82.68%; n = 406) and mesophilic aerobes (79.22%; n = 389) were the most common microorganisms. Samples with bacterial pathogens were also identified, with Bacillus cereus (4.07%; n = 20) and Listeria monocytogenes (3.66%; n = 18) being the most prevalent.

CONCLUSIONS

A high number of samples of enteral formulations exceeded the bacterial count, but the risk to patient's health when consuming enteral tube feeding prepared in hospitals or at home may be low. This is because the bacteria present in the samples are not considered potential causes of disease but rather indicators of hygiene conditions.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022367573.

Experience with the management of patients requiring home enteral nutrition in routine clinical practice in Spain: the ECONES study

Introduction

Introduction: enteral nutrition is an effective method for restoring the nutritional status in patients unable to eat or fulfil nutritional requirements orally. Objectives: the ECONES study aimed to describe the treatment of patients requiring home enteral nutrition (HEN) in routine practice and the experience of specialists with the high-protein hypercaloric formula 2.0 with fiber IS50 (HP/HC 2.0). Methods: Spanish specialists answered a 38-questions survey about their last six patients with HEN and their treatment with HP/HC 2.0 formula. Results: the formulas were chosen based on the patients' requirements. HP/HC 2.0 was administered in a mean of 31.5 % of patients, and for a mean of 42.2 % of those, it was selected since the beginning of treatment. According to 92.4 % of specialists, the HP/HC 2.0 was considered as adequate based on nutritional requirements. Among adverse reactions, specialists reported diarrhea, bloating and constipation. Specialists reported that caregivers (90.6 %) stated that HP/HC 2.0 was well tolerated by patients (90.6 %) and expressed comfort with the frequency (75.3 %) and administration time (82.9 %). Conclusions: according to the specialists, formulas are chosen based on patients' characteristics. Patients with high nutritional needs benefit from the HP/HC 2.0 formula as it allows volume restriction, presents few adverse events, and improves the quality of life of the patients.

[Innovation in clinical nutrition: single dose in intermittent enteral tube feeding]

Introduction

The home enteral nutrition practical guidelines of the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) published in 2020 includes 61 recommendations. A significant number of them are related to safety parameters, prevention of complications, control strategies and quality of life of patients and family members. These are the same reasons why single-dose units are usually used on all medicines. Enteral feeding is one of the few treatments that has not yet reached the single dose and most patients with intermittent enteral nutrition by gastric tube have a dose which differs from pharmaceutical presentation. This leads to the risk of complications arising from errors in the administration that should not be forgotten and that affect mostly elderly and highly dependent populations. The innovation that consists in the creation of 375 ml single-dose containers for enteral feeding following the physiological schedules of the takes can solve most of them and meets the energy protein requirements and recommendations on dosage developed by scientific societies for patients at higher risk.

Artificial intelligence & clinical nutrition: What the future might have in store

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly emerging technology in healthcare that has the potential to revolutionise clinical nutrition. AI can assist in analysing complex data, interpreting medical images, and providing personalised nutrition interventions for patients. Clinical nutrition is a critical aspect of patient care, and AI can help clinicians make more informed decisions regarding patients' nutritional requirements, disease prevention, and management. AI algorithms can analyse large datasets to identify novel associations between diet and disease outcomes, enabling clinicians to make evidence-based nutritional recommendations. AI-powered devices and applications can also assist in tracking dietary intake, providing feedback, and motivating patients towards healthier food choices. However, the adoption of AI in clinical nutrition raises several ethical and regulatory concerns, such as data privacy and bias. Further research is needed to assess the clinical effectiveness and safety of AI-powered nutrition interventions. In conclusion, AI has the potential to transform clinical nutrition, but its integration into clinical practice should be carefully monitored to ensure patient safety and benefit. This article discusses the current and future applications of AI in clinical nutrition and highlights its potential benefits.

[ESPEN practical guideline: Home enteral nutrition]

Introduction

This ESPEN practical guideline will inform physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, caregivers and other home enteral nutrition (HEN) providers in a concise way about the indications and contraindications for HEN, as well as its implementation and monitoring. This guideline will also inform interested patients requiring HEN. Home parenteral nutrition is not included but will be addressed in a separate ESPEN guideline. The guideline is based on the ESPEN scientific guideline published before, which consists of 61 recommendations that have been reproduced and renumbered, along with the associated commentaries that have been shorted compared to the scientific guideline. Evidence grades and consensus levels are indicated. The guideline was commissioned and financially supported by ESPEN and the members of the guideline group were selected by ESPEN.

Establishment of risk model for elderly CAP at different age stages: a single-center retrospective observational study

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the main reasons of mortality and morbidity in elderly population, causing substantial clinical and economic impacts. However, clinically available score systems have been shown to demonstrate poor prediction of mortality for patients aged over 65. Especially, no existing clinical model can predict morbidity and mortality for CAP patients among different age stages. Here, we aimed to understand the impact of age variable on the establishment of assessment model and explored prognostic factors and new biomarkers in predicting mortality. We retrospectively analyzed elderly patients with CAP in Minhang Hospital, Fudan University. We used univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses to study the prognostic factors of mortality in each age-based subgroup. The prediction accuracy of the prognostic factors was determined by the Receiver Operating Characteristic curves and the area under the curves. Combination models were established using several logistic regressions to save the predicted probabilities. Four factors with independently prognostic significance were shared among all the groups, namely Albumin, BUN, NLR and Pulse, using univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis. Then we built a model with these 4 variables (as ABNP model) to predict the in-hospital mortality in all three groups. The AUC value of the ABNP model were 0.888 (95% CI 0.854-0.917, p < 0.000), 0.912 (95% CI 0.880-0.938, p < 0.000) and 0.872 (95% CI 0.833-0.905, p < 0.000) in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively. We established a predictive model for mortality based on an age variable -specific study of elderly patients with CAP, with higher AUC value than PSI, CURB-65 and qSOFA in predicting mortality in different age groups (66-75/ 76-85/ over 85 years).

Development of Quality Indicators for Geriatric Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) Services

The evidence on the safety, efficacy and patient centeredness of Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) services is scarce. In 2015, we carried out a search of the literature to identify specific indicators for HEN services as tools to be used to assess the quality of INRCA HEN services. No specific indicators for HEN services were found. Through a subsequent search of the literature, we have identified the appropriate methodology to define quality indicators and developed eight (8) specific indicators to track the quality of our HEN service for geriatric patients. Following Donabiedan's classification, we have defined two structure indicators, two process indicators and four outcome indicators that are presented in this manuscript. Though they may be used to make a comparison of HEN services for geriatric patients and to monitor the quality of therapy provided at patients' homes, the definition of quality system indicators for HEN services requires the additional joint efforts of experts in the field of nutrition and the scientific community for their validation.

Jejunal access for enteral nutrition: A practical guide for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy with jejunal extension and direct percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy

For patients requiring long-term (>4 weeks) jejunal nutrition, jejunal medication delivery, or decompression, a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy with jejunal extension (PEG-J) or a direct percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy (DPEJ) may be indicated. PEG-J is the preferred option if a PEG tube is already in place or if simultaneous gastric decompression and jejunal nutrition are needed. DPEJ is recommended for patients with altered anatomy due to foregut surgery, high risk of jejunal extension migration, and whenever PEG-J fails. Successful placement rates are lower for DPEJ but recent publications have reported improvements, partly due to the use of balloon-assisted enteroscopy. Both techniques are contraindicated in cases of active peritonitis, uncorrectable coagulopathy, and ongoing bowel ischaemia, and relative contraindications include, among other, peptic ulcer disease and haemodynamic or respiratory instability. In this narrative review, we present the most recent evidence on indications, contraindications, technical considerations, adverse events, and outcomes of PEG-J and DPEJ.

How far is the endoscopist to blame for a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy complication?

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a well-established, minimally invasive, and easy to perform procedure for nutrition delivery, applied to individuals unable to swallow for various reasons. PEG has a high technical success rate of insertion between 95% and 100% in experienced hands, but varying complication rates ranging from 0.4% to 22.5% of cases.

AIM

To discuss the existing evidence of major procedural complications in PEG, mainly focusing on those that could probably have been avoided, had the endoscopist been more experienced, or less self-confident in relation to the basic safety rules for PEG performance.

METHODS

After a thorough research of the international literature of a period of more than 30 years of published “case reports” concerning such complications, we critically analyzed only those complications which were considered - after assessment by two experts in PEG performance working separately - to be directly related to a form of malpractice by the endoscopist.

RESULTS

Malpractice by the endoscopist were considered cases of: Gastrostomy tubes passed through the colon or though the left lateral liver lobe, bleeding after puncture injury of large vessels of the stomach or the peritoneum, peritonitis after viscera damage, and injuries of the esophagus, spleen, and pancreas.

CONCLUSION

For a safe PEG insertion, the overfilling of the stomach and small bowel with air should be avoided, the clinician should check thoroughly for the proper trans-illumination of the light source of the endoscope through the abdominal wall and ensure endoscopically visible imprint of finger palpation on the skin at the center of the site of maximum illumination, and finally, the physician should be more alert with obese patients and those with previous abdominal surgery.

Impact of nutritional and educational support on home enteral nutrition

BACKGROUND

Home Enteral Nutrition (HEN) is used to prevent or correct malnutrition in outpatients. Due to the complexity of this process, the indication, follow-up, and results of an educational program of HEN patients was evaluated.

METHODS

A prospective, observational, real-life, multicenter study was performed in 21 Spanish Hospital. Patients receiving HEN by nasogastric tube or ostomy were included. The following variables were collected: age, gender, HEN indication, type of formula, nutritional requirements, laboratory variables, complications, and quality standards of the educational program. To calculate the energy and protein requirements, the FAO/WHO/UNU formula was used considering the adjusted weight of the patients. All data were analyzed using SPSS.24.

RESULTS

414 patients were included. Most conditions diagnosed were neurodegenerative diseases (64.8%). 100 (25.3%) were diabetic. The mean weight was 59.3 ± 10.4 kg and BMI 22.6 ± 3.2. Moderate protein-calorie malnutrition was predominant at baseline (46.4%). Improvement in nutritional status at six months was recorded in more than 75% of patients (p < 0.05). Tolerance problems, diarrhea and abdominal distension fell between the 3- and 6-month visits (p < 0.05). Patients who received intermittent EN had fewer tolerance-related effects (OR 0.042; 95% CI 0.006-0.279) and less diarrhoea (OR 0.042; 95% CI 0.006-0.279). At the baseline and 6-month visits, compliance with the educational measures proposed by the prescriber was ≥ 99%.

CONCLUSION

The nutritional assessment to prescribe individualized HEN to each patient, together with educational measures and training in the proper use of this treatment for both patients and trainers, improves nutritional status and reduces the onset of adverse events.

[Caregiver burden and reported quality of life in neurological patients with gastrostomy tubes.]

OBJECTIVE

the aim of the study is to determine if the use of home enteral nutrition (HEN) by percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) reduces the burden on the caregiver and improves the patients' quality of life reported by the caregivers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

a prospective, cross-sectional, descriptive, and observational study of a single cohort of 30 patients was conducted.

RESULTS

the results showed an improvement in nutritional status and analytical parameters. Fewer admissions (1.50 ± 0.90 vs 0.17 ± 0.38; p < 0.001) and hospital stays were reported at 3 months after gastrostomy (10.2 ± 8.02 days vs 0.27 ± 0.69 days; p < 0.001). The minutes spent by caregivers administering NEDs decreased after PEG placement by 28.5 minutes per feeding, which amounts to almost 150 minutes over a day and 5 feedings per day. In the Zarit questionnaire, there was a reduction of 13.5 points in the perception of overload. A total of 56.6 % of caregivers reported that quality of life had improved "quite a lot", compared to 6.7 % who reported little improvement, and 36.7 % who reported a lot of improvement. In the QoL-AD questionnaire, a higher score of 3.40 points was obtained.

CONCLUSION

the use of HEN by PEG tube reduces the time spent by the caregiver administering EN, which results in a reduced burden. In addition, the quality of life of patients reported by caregivers improved.

Peptide-based formula: Clinical applications and benefits

The use of enteral nutrition (EN) continues to increase given benefits. However, with this increase in use, it is also becoming evident that enteral feeding intolerance (EFI) is also quite prevalent, leading to the inability to meet nutrition needs in many patients. Given the wide variability in the EN population as well as the number of formulas available, there is not a clear consensus regarding the best approach to EFI management. One approach that is emerging to improve EN tolerance is the use of peptide-based formulas (PBFs). PBFs refer to enteral formulas containing proteins that have been enzymatically hydrolyzed to dipeptides and tripeptides. These hydrolyzed proteins are often combined with higher medium-chain triglyceride content to generate an enteral formula that is essentially easier to absorb and utilize. Emerging data demonstrate that the use of PBF in patients with EFI may improve clinical outcomes along with a corresponding reduction in healthcare utilization and potentially the cost of care. This review aims to navigate through key clinical applications and benefits of PBF and to discuss relevant data shared in the literature.

Systematic review of service improvements for home enteral tube feeding in adults

BACKGROUND

Patients receiving home enteral tube feeding (HETF) have a high risk of complications and readmission to hospital. This study aims to evaluate effectiveness of staff- and/or patient-focused service-improvement strategies on clinical, patient-reported, and economic outcomes for patients receiving HETF across adult settings.

METHODS

The search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Quality of studies were appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment.

RESULTS

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Pooled data found targeted HETF education with patients, carers, and staff significantly improved knowledge immediately after education and was sustained at 3-6 months. Multimodal interventions, including the formation of specialist HETF teams, significantly reduced complications such as infection, gastrostomy blockage, tube displacement, and feed intolerance but do not significantly reduce unplanned hospital encounters (outpatient clinic visits, hospitalizations, and emergency presentations). Owing to the high risk of bias in the included studies, there is low-quality evidence to support staff training, patient education, and dedicated HETF teams.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the need for further quality research to allow higher-level evidence for determining the usefulness of interventions aimed at improving outcomes for patients receiving HETF. Future research needs to include greater assessment of quality of life, quantification of the value of interventions in economic terms, and use of translational research frameworks. However, effective staff and patient education programs, along with comprehensive multidisciplinary care, should be considered standard care until a larger research base is developed.

Evolving Therapeutic Roles of Nasogastric Tubes: Current Concepts in Clinical Practice

Nasogastric tubes (NGT) have been in use for over 100 years and are still considered as essential and resuscitative tools in multiple medical specialties for acute and chronic care. They are vital for decompression of the stomach in the presence of bowel obstruction in the critically ill and useful as a conduit for the administration of medications and sometimes for short term parenteral nutrition. The placement of nasogastric tubes is relatively routine. However, they must be inserted and maintained safely and effectively to avoid serious and possibly even fatal associated complications. This review focuses on recent updates in research regarding nasogastric tubes. Cognizance of the recent advances in indications, contraindications, techniques of insertion, confirmation of correct positioning, securement, complications, management of complications, and state of the art research about the nasogastric tube is crucial for practitioners of all medical and surgical specialties.

ESPEN practical guideline: Home parenteral nutrition

This guideline will inform physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, caregivers and other home parenteral nutrition (HPN) providers, as well as healthcare administrators and policy makers, about appropriate and safe HPN provision. This guideline will also inform patients requiring HPN. The guideline is based on previous published guidelines and provides an update of current evidence and expert opinion; it consists of 71 recommendations that address the indications for HPN, central venous access device (CVAD) and infusion pump, infusion catheter and CVAD site care, nutritional admixtures, program monitoring and management. Meta-analyses, systematic reviews and single clinical trials based on clinical questions were searched according to the PICO format. The evidence was evaluated and used to develop clinical recommendations implementing Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network methodology. The guideline was commissioned and financially supported by ESPEN and members of the guideline group were selected by ESPEN.

Fundus fluorescein angiography via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: Description of technique

Purpose

To report an alternative technique of fundus fluorescein angiography using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG).

Methods

A case series from a single center.

Results

Two bed-bound children on tracheostomy received 10% fluorescein sodium via PEG to diagnose their retinal condition. The dye appeared at 5 min after administration and stayed in the retinal circulation past 30 min. Good quality fluorescein angiograms were obtained in all cases. There were no safety issues in these two children.

Conclusions and Importance

Retinal angiography with fluorescein dye administered via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy may represent a suitable alternative to currently used intravenous and oral fluorescein angiography.

Early Tube Feeding after Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG): An Observational Study

This study investigated whether enteral nutrition by early tube feeding led to changes in clinical parameters compared to tube feeding after 24 h. Starting on 1 January 2021, and following the latest update of the ESPEN guidelines on enteral nutrition, patients with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) received tube feeding 4 h after tube insertion. An observational study was conducted to analyze whether the new scheme affected patient complaints, complications, or hospitalization duration compared to the previous procedure of tube feeding starting after 24 h. Clinical patient records from one year before and one year after the introduction of the new scheme were examined. A total of 98 patients were included, and of those 47 received tube feeding 24 h after tube insertion, and 51 received tube feeding 4 h after tube insertion. The new scheme did not influence the frequency or severity of patient complaints or complications related to tube feeding (all p-values > 0.05). However, the study showed that the length of stay in hospital was significantly shorter when following the new scheme (p = 0.030). In this observational cohort study an earlier start of tube feeding did not produce any negative consequences but did reduce the duration of hospitalization. Therefore, an early start, as suggested in the recent ESPEN guidelines, is supported and recommended.

Assessment of Oral Health in Long-Term Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition Patients: Significant Aspects of Nursing Care

Oral health is an underestimated factor affecting overall human health and quality of life. Long-term enteral or parenteral nutritional treatment requires not only regular assessment of access routes, the patient's nutritional status, and tolerance to the selected method of nutrition but also of oral health. This article discusses the connections between the influence of chewing function, salivation, and xerostomia on the health of the oral cavity of patients on long-term enteral and parenteral nutrition. In addition, the role of nurses in assessing oral health is presented as well as crucial elements of a comprehensive oral assessment in a nursing care plan. Patients receiving long-term enteral and parenteral nutrition have an increased risk of developing oral diseases. Increasing knowledge about the factors affecting oral health among nurses is crucial to provide appropriate care for patients requiring long-term nutritional treatment with omission of the natural route of food intake. Regular assessment of oral health by nurses should be an important aspect in long-term nutritional treatment recommendations.

The Impact of Blenderized Tube Feeding on Gastrointestinal Symptoms, a Scoping Review

Severe gastrointestinal symptoms are one of the main reasons for switching from conventional artificial tube feeding to blenderized tube feeding (BTF). This study aimed to describe and quantify the impact of BTF on gastrointestinal symptoms in children and adults. We analyzed four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar). The review was performed following the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. The methodological quality of articles was assessed following the NIH quality assessment tools. The initial search yielded 535 articles and, after removing duplicates and off-topic articles, 12 met the inclusion criteria. All included papers unanimously converged in defining an improvement of gastrointestinal symptoms during blenderized feeding: the eight studies involving pediatric cohorts report a decrease from 30 to over 50% in gagging and retching after commencing BTF. Similar rates are reported for constipation and diarrhea improvement in most critically ill adults. Experimental studies and particularly randomized controlled trials are needed to develop robust evidence on the effectiveness of BTF in gastrointestinal symptom improvement with prolonged follow-up and adequate medical monitoring.

Should Carbohydrate Intake Be More Liberal during Oral and Enteral Nutrition in Type 2 Diabetic Patients?

Carbohydrate (CHO) intake in oral and enteral nutrition is regularly reduced in nutritional support of older patients due to the high prevalence of diabetes (usually type 2-T2DM) in this age group. However, CHO shortage can lead to the lack of building blocks necessary for tissue regeneration and other anabolic processes. Moreover, low CHO intake decreases CHO oxidation and can increase insulin resistance. The aim of our current study was to determine the extent to which an increased intake of a rapidly digestible carbohydrate-maltodextrin-affects blood glucose levels monitored continuously for one week in patients with and without T2DM. Twenty-one patients (14 T2DM and seven without diabetes) were studied for two weeks. During the first week, patients with T2DM received standard diabetic nutrition (250 g CHO per day) and patients without diabetes received a standard diet (350 g of CHO per day). During the second week, the daily CHO intake was increased to 400 in T2DM and 500 g in nondiabetic patients by addition of 150 g maltodextrin divided into three equal doses of 50 g and given immediately after the main meal. Plasma glucose level was monitored continually with the help of a subcutaneous sensor during both weeks. The increased CHO intake led to transient postprandial increase of glucose levels in T2DM patients. This rise was more manifest during the first three days of CHO intake, and then the postprandial peak hyperglycemia was blunted. During the night's fasting period, the glucose levels were not influenced by maltodextrin. Supplementation of additional CHO did not influence the percentual range of high glucose level and decreased a risk of hypoglycaemia. No change in T2DM treatment was indicated. The results confirm our assumption that increased CHO intake as an alternative to CHO restriction in type 2 diabetic patients during oral and enteral nutritional support is safe.

A Cross Sectional Survey-Based Study to Investigate the Availability and Utilisation of Home Nutrition Support in Saudi Arabia

Background and Aims

Many patients require long-term nutrition support, typically in the form of home nutrition support (HNS). The availability and utilisation of HNS in Saudi Arabia is currently unknown; therefore, this study was conducted to assess the availability of HNS in Saudi hospitals and to explore factors associated with the availability of HNS in different healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among physicians, dietitians, and pharmacists working in Saudi Arabia with regular practice in nutrition support. Data was collected through self-administered web-based survey, which was distributed via social-media platforms.

Results

A total of 114 responses were received from healthcare providers involved in nutrition support across Saudi Arabia. Of the respondents, 55 (48.2%) indicated that nutrition support services were available at their facility. Regression analysis showed that other regions in Saudi Arabia had lower odds of having HNS compared with the Western region (OR=0.01; 95% CI=0.01-0.69). The university and specialised hospitals had lower odds of having HNS compared with Ministry of Health hospitals (OR=0.11; 95% CI=0.02-0.71, OR=0.11; 95% CI=0.02-0.56, respectively). Hospitals with capacities of 100-250 beds and 251-500 had higher odds of having HNS than smaller hospitals (OR=13.17; 95% CI=1.09-159.5, OR=3.11; 95% CI=2.04-248.77, respectively).

Conclusion

There is lack of published reports from hospitals with implemented HNS. Therefore, it is difficult to assess the current situation of HNS programmes. Future national studies focusing on HNS are warranted as there is a rising international trend in the number of patients requiring HNS.

Comparison Between Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy and Nasogastric Feeding in 160 Patients with Swallowing Disturbances: A Two-Year Follow-Up Study

Purpose

We retrospectively compared the complications, blood biochemical indexes and outcomes in patients with swallowing disturbances receiving nasogastric tube (NGT) feeding and percutaneous endoscopy gastrostomy (PEG).

Methods

Among 160 patients, 72 cases received PEG and 88 cases received NGT. All patients were followed up for two years. We collected their clinical data from the medical records. Indicators, such as body mass index (BMI), white blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin (HGB), complications, including recurrent aspiration pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleeding, reflux esophagitis, and outcomes (survival or death) were compared between the two groups semi-annually.

Results

SAt both six months and one year after receiving treatment, there was no statistical difference between the two groups in indicators, complications and outcomes, with all P >0.05. It can be seen that, when the patients were followed up for one and a half years18 months, ALB was lower in the NGT group (33.81±0.46) compared with the PEG group (36.14±0.50) (P <0.05). After two years of follow-up, differences between the NGT and PEG group could be seen in a variety of indicators, including BMI (20.08±0.27 vs 21.03±0.25), WBC (9.12±0.56 vs 7.08±0.29), ALB (33.11±0.43 vs 35.75±0.49), creatinine (55.07±1.83 vs 63.21±2.94), and the complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleeding, reflux esophagitis, and electrolyte disorder, in the PEG group were significantly reduced compared to the NGT groupthan that in its counterpart, P <0.05. In the two-year follow-up period, there were 13 and 22 patients died in the PEG group and NGT group, respectively.

Conclusion

Both techniques are safe and effective in the short term. However, on a longer-term basis, PEG is shown to be superior to NGT feeding in improving nutrition and preventing common complications for patients with swallowing disturbances.

Micronutrient deficiency risk in long-term enterally fed patients: A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The micronutrient status of those receiving long-term enteral nutrition (EN) is poorly characterised. This systematic review was undertaken to determine prevalence of micronutrient deficiency in those receiving EN; the impact of the route of feeding; whether underlying disease or clinical factors were associated with micronutrient status; and the efficacy of interventions utilised to treat identified micronutrient deficiency.

METHODS

Electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science) were searched to June 2021 for publications of primary investigation of micronutrient status in adults or children (>5yrs) receiving EN for >2 months in their usual residence. Independent assessment of compliance with inclusion criteria (Covidence®), data extraction of predefined data points, assessment of basis (Academy of Dietetics Quality Checklist) and certainty of evidence (GRADE) was assessed by at least two authors. (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42021261113).

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies (n = 744) met inclusion criteria. Deficiency was reported for copper, zinc, selenium, beta-carotene, and vitamins A, D and E: Only copper, zinc and selenium were associated with physical/haematological manifestations of deficiency. Jejunal feeding was associated with the development of copper deficiency and often required gastric or parenteral replacement to resolve the issue. Circumstances leading to deficiency included receiving feed products formulated with inadequate amounts of the implicated nutrient, low feed product volumes in the context of low macronutrient requirements, and nutritional decline prior to commencement of EN. Potential confounding factors such as inflammation were rarely accounted for. No studies investigated the contribution of underlying clinical condition on micronutrient status, and no other clinical or demographic features appeared to impact outcomes. Reported methods for treating identified deficiencies were usually successful in reversing deficiency symptoms. The certainty of evidence is very low, and the level of bias moderate to high.

CONCLUSION

While the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of long-term enteral feeding on the development of micronutrient deficiencies, clinicians should be alert to the possibility of micronutrient deficiency developing in long-term EN fed patients. Those who may be at increased risk are those receiving nutrition into the jejunum, those who meet macronutrient requirements in low volumes of EN product, and those commencing EN in a nutritionally deplete state. Further research and surveillance of micronutrient status with contemporary EN products and practices is required.

Continuity of care in disease-related malnutrition and nutritional medical treatment

Disease-related malnutrition (DRM) continues to be a very significant healthcare problem, both in our hospitals and in the community. It is often not properly diagnosed or treated, despite a growing body of evidence highlighting its clinical and economic consequences. The transition between clinical care in the hospital and community services (Primary Care (PC) and Nursing Homes) is a key element in the prevention, detection and treatment of DRM. In October 2020, the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SEEN) and the main societies of PC physicians in our country (SEMERGEN, SEMFYC and SEMG) met for the first time within the virtual NutriSEEN forum. From that moment on, a joint working group was created for this issue. This document tries to establish joint lines of work between the Clinical Nutrition and Dietetic Units (UNCyD) and the Primary Care teams to improve the detection and treatment of DRM. The clinical consequences and costs associated with DRE, nutritional risk screening, assessment and medical nutritional treatment are considered in a coordinated way between the PC teams and the UNCyD, as well as future proposals to improve the management of DRM.

A high-protein peptide-based enteral formula improves diarrhea in tube-fed patients: A prospective multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Diarrhea is a common problem in tube-fed patients. The relevant guidelines suggest using a peptide-based enteral formula in patients with diarrhea; however, sufficient evidence to support this recommendation is currently lacking.

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a high-protein peptide-based formula on gastrointestinal intolerance, mainly focusing on diarrhea symptoms in patients who were intolerant to polymeric formula feeding.

METHODS

This prospective, single-arm, open-label, multicenter study was conducted from March 2021 to March 2022 at two tertiary-care hospitals. Patients who presented with diarrhea during tube feeding with polymeric formula were assigned to receive a high-protein peptide-based formula for ≤7 days. Stool weight and frequency were monitored at baseline, on day 3, and on day 7 (or end of the study) as the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight tube-fed patients with diarrhea were recruited. After switching their feeding formula from polymeric to peptide based, significant improvements in stool frequency and stool weight were observed on day 3 and day 7 compared with the baseline (median [IQR] stool frequency: 5 (2), 2.5 (3.5), and 3 (3) times/day, respectively, p <0.001; median stool weight: 500 (370), 170 (285), and 275 (385) gram/day, respectively, p = 0.015). Stool consistency was assessed using the Bristol Stool Score and showed significant improvement with time. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

A high-protein peptide-based enteral formula was effective in reducing stool weight and frequency in patients who experienced diarrhea during tube feeding with a polymeric formula.Trial registration: TCTR20210302006.

Chinese expert consensus on prevention and intervention for the elderly with malnutrition (2022)

Malnutrition is a state of altered body composition and body cell mass due to inadequate intake or utilization of energy or nutrients, leading to physical and mental dysfunction and impaired clinical outcomes. As one of the most common geriatric syndromes, malnutrition in the elderly is a significant risk factor for poor clinical outcomes, causing a massive burden on medical resources and society. The risk factors for malnutrition in the elderly are diverse and include demographics, chronic diseases, and psychosocial factors. Presently, recommendations for the prevention and intervention of malnutrition in the elderly are not clear or consistent in China. This consensus is based on the latest global evidence and multiregional clinical experience in China, which aims to standardize the prevention and intervention of malnutrition in the elderly in China and improve the efficacy of clinical practice and the prognosis of elderly patients.

Exploration of Aging-Care Parameters to Predict Mortality of Patients Aged 80-Years and Above with Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Purpose

The study explores a clinical model based on aging-care parameters to predict the mortality of hospitalized patients aged 80-year and above with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Patients and methods

In this study, four hundred and thirty-five CAP patients aged 80-years and above were enrolled in the Central Hospital of Minhang District, Shanghai during 01,01,2018–31,12,2021. The clinical data were collected, including aging-care relevant factors (ALB, FRAIL, Barthel Index and age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index) and other commonly used factors. The prognostic factors were screened by multivariable logistic regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to predict the mortality risk.

Results

Univariate analysis demonstrated that several factors, including gender, platelet distribution width, NLR, ALB, CRP, pct, pre-albumin, CURB-65, low-density, lipoprotein, Barthel Index, FRAIL, leucocyte count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count and aCCI, were associated with the prognosis of CAP. Multivariate model analyses further identified that CURB-65 (p < 0.0001, OR = 5.44, 95% CI = 3.021–10.700), FRAIL (p < 0.0001, OR = 5.441, 95% CI = 2.611–12.25) and aCCI (p = 0.003, OR = 1.551, 95% CI = 1.165–2.099) were independent risk factors, whereas ALB (p = 0.005, OR = 0.871, 95% CI = 0.788–0.957) and Barthel Index (p = 0.0007, OR = 0.958, 95% CI = 0.933–0.981) were independent protective factors. ROC curves were plotted to further predict the in-hospital mortality and revealed that combination of three parameters (Barthel Index+ FRAI +CURB-65) showed the best performance.

Conclusion

This study showed that CURB-65, frailty and aCCI were independent risk factors influencing prognosis. In addition, ALB and Barthel Index were protective factors for in CAP patients over 80-years old. AUC was calculated and revealed that combination of three parameters (Barthel Index+ FRAI +CURB-65) showed the best performance.

Study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of oral trehalose on inflammatory factors, oxidative stress, nutritional and clinical status in traumatic head injury patients receiving enteral nutrition

INTRODUCTION

In traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients, inflammatory processes and oxidative stress have been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, disability, increased rate of muscle catabolism, malnutrition, hospital stay and mortality. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that trehalose can decrease inflammatory and oxidative factors. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the effect of oral trehalose consumption on this marker in critically ill TBI patients at intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a pilot randomised, prospective and double-blind clinical trial. The study sample size is of 20 (10 patients in each group) TBI patients aged 18-65 years at ICU. Randomisation is performed by permuted block randomisation method. The allocation ratio is 1:1. An intervention group will receive 30 g of trehalose instead, as a part of the carbohydrate of daily bolus enteral feeding and the control group will receive standard isocaloric hospital bolus enteral feeding for 12 days. The inflammatory factors (C reactive protein, interleukin 6) and oxidative stress markers (glutathione, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance, total antioxidant capacity) will be measured at the baseline, at the 6th day, and at the end of the study (12th day). Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II, Nutrition Risk in the Critically ill scores, 28-day mortality, anthropometric assessments and the clinical and nutritional status will be measured. Each patient's nutritional needs will be calculated individually. The statistical analysis would be based on the intention to treat.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The vice-chancellor of the research centre of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences is sponsoring this study. IR.MUMS.MEDICAL.REC.1400.113.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) Id: IRCT20210508051223N1, Registration date: 26 July 2021.

Night home enteral nutrition as a novel enforced and physiologically effective nutrition therapy following total gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Enteral nutrition has been reported to be safe and effective in malnourished patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal surgery. In this study, we devised night home enteral nutrition (N-HEN) as a novel nutritional strategy and evaluated the efficacy in gastric cancer patients following total gastrectomy. Between January 2017 and March 2021, 24 patients were prospectively included in the protocol and supported by N-HEN for three postoperative months through a jejunostomy during the night (Elental:1200 kcal/day), and 22 patients without N-HEN were followed as a control group (CG). Body weight loss, nutritional indicators and tolerance to chemotherapy were evaluated. After 3 and 6 months, patients with N-HEN had significantly less body weight loss than CG (3 months P < 0.0001: N-HEN 4.0% vs. CG 15.2%, 6 months P < 0.0001: N-HEN 7.7% vs. CG 17.7%). Prealbumin was significantly higher in patients with N-HEN than CG after 3 and 6 months (3 months P < 0.0001, 6 months P = 0.0037). Albumin, total protein and hemoglobin, tended to be higher after 3 and 6 months in patients with N-HEN than CG, and total cholesterol after 6 months. Concerning the tolerance to adjuvant chemotherapy in Stage II-III patients, patients with N-HEN significantly had a higher completion rate (P = 0.0420: N-HEN 70% vs. CG 29%) and longer duration (P = 0.0313: N-HEN 458 days vs. CG 261 days) as planned. Continuous monitoring of blood glucose concentration in patients with N-HEN did not show nocturnal hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. N-HEN could be a novel enforced and physiologically effective nutritional strategy to support potentially malnourished patients following total gastrectomy.

A dedicated feeding tube clinic reduces emergency department utilization for gastrostomy tube complications

INTRODUCTION

Enteral access is required for a variety of reasons from neuromuscular disorders to dysphagia. Gastrostomy tubes (GTs) can be placed endoscopically, surgically, or radiographically and complications include infection, bleeding, leakage and unintentional removal. Routine post-procedural follow-up is limited by inconsistent guidelines and management by different specialty teams. We established a dedicated GT clinic to provide continuity of care and prophylactic GT exchange. We hypothesized that patients followed in the GT clinic would have reduced Emergency Department (ED) utilization.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients who underwent GT placement from January 2010 to January 2020 was conducted. Baseline demographics, indications for GT placement, number and reason for ED visits and utilization of a multidisciplinary GT clinic were studied.

RESULTS

A total of 97 patients were included. The most common indication for placement was dysphagia (88, 91%) and the most common primary diagnosis was head and neck malignancy (51, 51%). The GT clinic is a multidisciplinary clinic staffed by surgeons and residents, dieticians, and wound care specialists and cared for 16 patients in this study. Three patients (19%) in the GT clinic group required ED visits compared to 44 (54%) in the standard of care (SOC) group (p < 0.05). There was an average of 0.9 ED visits per patient (range 0-7) in the GT clinic group vs 1.6 ED visits per patient (range 0-20) in the SOC group (p = 0.34). Feeding tubes were prophylactically exchanged an average of 7 times per patient in the GT clinic group vs 3 times per patient in the SOC group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A multidisciplinary clinic dedicated to GT care limits ED visits for associated complications by more than 50%. Follow-up in a dedicated clinic with prophylactic tube exchange decreases ED visits and should be considered at facilities that care for patients with GTs.