JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition
-
JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr · Mar 2013
A cohort study of nutrition practices in the intensive care unit following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
Enteral nutrition within 48 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission is recommended for the ICU population. Major vascular surgery patients have a higher incidence of pre- and postoperative malnutrition compared with the general surgical population. Our objectives were to determine if early feeding (within 48 hours of admission) is achievable and well tolerated, identify factors that predict early feeding, and determine if there is an association between early feeding and in-hospital mortality among abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair patients. ⋯ Early feeding was achieved in a minority of patients following AAA repair, was related to type of surgery and duration of mechanical ventilation, and was tolerated as well as later introduced feedings. Randomized trials are needed to determine safety and benefits of early feeding in this patient group.
-
JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr · Mar 2013
Nutrition and fluid optimization for patients with short bowel syndrome.
Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is characterized by nutrient malabsorption and occurs following surgical resection, congenital defect, or disease of the bowel. The severity of SBS depends on the length and anatomy of the bowel resected and the health of the remaining tissue. During the 2 years following resection, the remnant bowel undergoes an adaptation process that increases its absorptive capacity. ⋯ Prebiotic or probiotic therapy may be beneficial for patients with SBS, although further research is needed to determine optimal protocols. Patients with SBS, particularly those without a colon, are at high risk of dehydration; oral rehydration solutions sipped throughout the day can help maintain hydration. One of the primary goals of SBS therapy is to reduce or eliminate dependence on PN/IV; optimization of EN and hydration substantially increases the probability of successful PN/IV weaning.