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Indications and Contraindications of Enteral Nutrition

May 30, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
In general, enteral nutrition refers to the delivery of nutrients and nutritional substances via the gastrointestinal tract, which can replace or supplement oral intake in certain situations to maintain a patient's nutritional status. Common indications include gastrointestinal obstruction, impaired intestinal function, and the postoperative recovery period; contraindications include intestinal perforation, intestinal necrosis, and major gastrointestinal bleeding.

Generally, enteral nutrition refers to the method of providing nutrients and nourishment via the gastrointestinal tract, which can replace or supplement oral intake in certain situations to maintain a patient's nutritional status. Common indications include gastrointestinal obstruction, intestinal dysfunction, and the postoperative recovery period; contraindications include intestinal perforation, bowel necrosis, and major gastrointestinal bleeding. A detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Indications

1. Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Gastrointestinal obstruction may prevent patients from eating normally or obtaining sufficient nutrition. In such cases, enteral nutrition can deliver nutrients through alternative pathways.

2. Intestinal Dysfunction
Certain diseases, such as short bowel syndrome, radiation enteritis, and Crohn’s disease, may impair the intestine’s absorptive capacity, leading to malnutrition. Enteral nutrition can provide adequate nutrients to maintain the patient’s health.

3. Postoperative Recovery Period
After certain complex surgeries, digestive tract function may be impaired, making it impossible for patients to eat orally. In these cases, enteral nutrition helps maintain nutritional status and supports recovery.

II. Contraindications

1. Intestinal Perforation
Intestinal perforation increases the risk of intestinal and intra-abdominal infections. Enteral nutrition may exacerbate infection and worsen symptoms; therefore, it is not suitable when intestinal perforation is present.

2. Bowel Necrosis
Bowel necrosis is a severe condition often accompanied by intestinal hemorrhage and intestinal wall necrosis. Enteral nutrition may aggravate the condition and lead to symptom deterioration.

3. Major Gastrointestinal Bleeding
In cases of major gastrointestinal bleeding, priority should be given to other therapeutic measures to stabilize the patient’s condition. Enteral nutrition may increase blood loss, worsen bleeding, and cause other serious complications, and thus is not recommended during active major gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

In summary, enteral nutrition is an important approach for maintaining patient nutrition and health under certain conditions, but it must be used cautiously according to individual circumstances. Patients should use enteral nutrition under medical supervision and undergo regular evaluations to ensure its safety and effectiveness.


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