transpyloric feeding
Enteral nutrition delivered beyond the pylorus into the duodenum or jejunum, used in critically ill children when gastric feeding is contraindicated or not tolerated.
Full Definition
Transpyloric feeding is a specialized method of enteral nutrition delivery where feeding tubes are placed past the pyloric sphincter into the small intestine, typically the duodenum or proximal jejunum. This approach is commonly employed in pediatric critical care when patients have gastric intolerance, high aspiration risk, severe gastroesophageal reflux, or delayed gastric emptying. Transpyloric feeding often allows for continued nutritional support in critically ill children who cannot tolerate standard gastric feeding, helping to maintain gut integrity and immune function. The technique requires specialized tube placement and ongoing monitoring for complications such as tube migration or feeding intolerance.
In Context
- "Due to persistent gastric residuals, the patient was converted to transpyloric feeding to maintain nutritional support." — Nutrition care plan
- "Transpyloric feeding was initiated using a weighted tube placed under fluoroscopic guidance." — Procedure note