Enteral

Enteral refers to the administration of nutrients, medications, or other substances directly into the gastrointestinal tract, typically the stomach or small intestine. This method of delivery is used when a patient is unable to ingest or absorb nutrients through the normal oral route, such as in cases of swallowing difficulties, malabsorption disorders, or the need for specialized nutritional support.

Enteral can be relevant in the following dental cases:

Patients with swallowing disorders: After injuries, surgeries, or diseases in the head and neck area, patients can have difficulty swallowing. In such cases, enteral nutrition via a feeding tube can ensure the necessary nutritional supply.

Patients with jaw/facial anomalies: Congenital or acquired deformities in the jaw and facial area can make chewing and swallowing difficult. Here too, an enteral feeding tube can be helpful.

Patients with severe caries or periodontal diseases: In extreme cases, when the chewing apparatus is severely damaged, temporary enteral nutrition may be necessary until oral hygiene and dental health are restored.

Elderly, dependent patients: In elderly people with swallowing disorders, dementia or multimorbidity, enteral nutrition can play an important role in preventing malnutrition.

In addition to nutrition, the enteral access can also be used for the administration of medications, e.g. antibiotics, pain relievers or mouth rinses, when the oral route is not possible.

Close cooperation between dentists, physicians, nurses and nutritional experts is crucial to find and safely implement the appropriate form of enteral nutrition and medication for the individual patient case.

The enteral route is preferred over parenteral (intravenous) administration when possible, as it more closely mimics the body's natural digestive process and can be more physiologically beneficial. Enteral nutrition can be provided through a variety of techniques, including nasogastric (NG) tubes, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes, or jejunostomy tubes, depending on the patient's specific needs and clinical condition.

The NG tube is a flexible, narrow tube that is inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. This method is often used for short-term nutritional support or medication administration when the patient is able to swallow and the gastrointestinal tract is functioning properly.

PEG tubes are surgically placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall, bypassing the oral cavity. This method is typically used for longer-term nutritional support in patients with swallowing difficulties, neurological disorders, or other conditions that prevent adequate oral intake.

Jejunostomy tubes are surgically placed directly into the small intestine, usually the jejunum, and are used in cases where the stomach or esophagus is not accessible or when the patient requires specialized nutritional formulas that cannot be tolerated in the stomach.

The selection of the appropriate enteral access method is determined by the patient's underlying medical condition, the anticipated duration of nutritional support, and the potential risks and benefits of each technique. The healthcare team, which may include a physician, nurse, and dietitian, works closely with the patient and their family to develop the most suitable enteral feeding plan.

Enteral nutrition can provide a wide range of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, tailored to the individual patient's needs. The specific formula and feeding regimen are carefully calculated and monitored to ensure optimal nutritional status and minimize the risk of complications, such as aspiration, diarrhea, or electrolyte imbalances.

In addition to nutritional support, the enteral route can also be used for the administration of medications, such as antibiotics, antacids, or other therapies, when the oral route is not feasible or when the medication requires direct delivery to the gastrointestinal tract for optimal absorption or effectiveness.

Proper management of enteral feeding systems, including regular monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting, is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers must work together to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of enteral nutrition therapy.

Explore the latest advancements in enteral nutrition with Dr. BestPrice. Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your dental needs.