Major complications of jejunal feeding in children

A clinical consensus paper on jejunal tube feeding in children

BACKGROUND

Feeding problems are common in children with complex medical problems or acute critical illness and enteral nutrition may be required. In certain situations, gastric tube feeding is poorly tolerated or may not be feasible. When feed intolerance persists despite appropriate adjustments to oral and gastric enteral regimens, jejunal tube feeding can be considered as an option for nutrition support.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary expert working group of the Australasian Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition was convened. They identified topic questions and five key areas of jejunal tube feeding in children. Literatures searches were undertaken on Pubmed, Embase, and Medline for all relevant studies, between January 2000 and September 2022 (n = 103). Studies were assessed using National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines to generate statements, which were discussed as a group, followed by voting on statements using a modified Delphi process to determine consensus.

RESULTS

A total of 24 consensus statements were created for five key areas: patient selection, type and selection of feeding tube, complications, clinical use of jejunal tubes, follow-up, and reassessment.

CONCLUSION

Jejunal tube feeding is a safe and effective means of providing nutrition in a select group of pediatric patients with complex medical needs, who are unable to be fed by gastric tube feeding. Appropriate patient selection is important as complications associated with jejunal tube feeding are not uncommon, and although mostly minor, can be significant or require tube reinsertion. All children receiving jejunal tube feeding should have multidisciplinary team assessment and follow-up.

Dynamic ultrasonography for optimizing treatment position in superior mesenteric artery syndrome: Two case reports and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome is a rare cause of duodenal obstruction by extrinsic compression between the SMA and the aorta (SMA-Ao). Although the left lateral recumbent position is considered effective in the treatment of SMA syndrome, individual variations in the optimal patient position have been noted. In this report, we present two elderly cases of SMA syndrome that exhibited rapid recovery due to ultrasonographic dynamic evaluation of the optimal position for each patient.

CASE SUMMARY

Case 1: A 90-year-old man with nausea and vomiting. Following diagnosis of SMA syndrome by computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography (US) revealed the SMA-Ao distance in the supine position (4 mm), which slightly improved in the lateral position (5.7-7.0 mm) without the passage of duodenal contents. However, in the sitting position, the SMA-Ao distance was increased to 15 mm accompanied by improved content passage. Additionally, US indicated enhanced passage upon abdominal massage on the right side. By day 2, the patient could eat comfortably with the optimal position and massage. Case 2: An 87-year-old woman with vomiting. After the diagnosis of SMA syndrome and aspiration pneumonia by CT, dynamic US confirmed the optimal position (SMA-Ao distance was improved to 7 mm in forward-bent position, whereas it remained at 5 mm in the supine position). By day 7 when her pneumonia recovered, she could eat with the optimal position.

CONCLUSION

The optimal position for SMA syndrome varies among individuals. Dynamic US appears to be a valuable tool in improving patient outcomes.

Enteral access and reflux management in neonates with severe univentricular congenital heart disease: literature review and proposed algorithm

Neonates with severe congenital heart disease undergoing surgical repair may face various complications, including failure to thrive. Feeding tube placement and fundoplication are often performed to combat poor growth in neonates. With the variety of feeding tubes available and controversy surrounding when fundoplication is appropriate, there is no current protocol to determine which intervention is necessary for this patient population. We aim to provide an evidence-based feeding algorithm for this patient population. Initial searches for relevant publications yielded 696 publications; after review of these studies and inclusion of additional studies through external searches, a total of 38 studies were included for qualitative synthesis. Many of the studies utilized did not directly compare the different feeding modalities. Of the 38 studies included, five studies were randomized control trials, three studies were literature reviews, one study was an online survey, and the remaining twenty-nine studies were observational. There is no current evidence to suggest that this specific patient population should be treated differently regarding enteral feeding. We propose an algorithm to assist optimal feeding for neonates with congenital heart disease. Conclusion: Nutrition remains a vital component of the care of neonates with congenital heart disease; determining the optimal feeding strategy for these patients can be approached like other neonates.

Pediatric Neurogastroenterology and Motility Disorders: What Role Does Endoscopy Play?

Although pediatric neurogastroenterology and motility (PNGM) disorders are prevalent, often debilitating, and remain challenging to diagnose and treat, this field has made remarkable progress in the last decade. Diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal endoscopy emerged as a valuable tool in the management of PNGM disorders. Novel modalities such as functional lumen imaging probe, per-oral endoscopic myotomy, gastric-POEM, and electrocautery incisional therapy have changed the diagnostic and therapeutic landscape of PNGM. In this review, the authors highlight the emerging role of therapeutic and diagnostic endoscopy in esophageal, gastric, small bowel, colonic, and anorectal disorders and disorders of gut and brain axis interaction.

Length of Bowel Rest Does Not Predict Gastrojejunostomy Tube-Associated Intussusception Recurrence

OBJECTIVES

One potential treatment for gastrojejunostomy (GJ) tube-related intussusception is bowel rest, whereby the GJ tube is replaced with a gastrostomy tube. The aim of this study was to determine whether bowel rest length was associated with decreased risk of re-intussusception.

METHODS

Pediatric patients with GJ tube-related intussusceptions were identified during the study period of January 1, 2010 and August 1, 2021. Records were reviewed for demographics, symptoms, need for central access to initiate parenteral nutrition, and length of stay. Comparison was made between patients with intussusception recurrence within 30 days and those without. Those undergoing earlier replacement, defined as the first quartile of rest time, or 72 hours, were then compared to longer periods of bowel rest.

RESULTS

Forty-six intussusceptions were included, with a median age of 2.8 years (interquartile range, IQR: 1.4-4.1) and weight of 12 kg (IQR: 8.9-15.4). All patients diagnosed as outpatient (54.3%) required hospital admission and 9 of 46 (19.6%) required central access. There were 7 recurrences (15.2%). There was no difference in recurrence based on time of bowel rest (5 days in those without vs 6 days in those with, P = 0.30) nor a difference in recurrence with <72 hours of bowel rest compared to >72 hours (1/15, 6.7% vs 6/31, 19.3%). Patients undergoing earlier exchange had a shorter median length of hospital stay (3 vs 8.5 days, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Length of bowel rest was not associated with recurrent GJ tube-related intussusceptions. If bowel rest is utilized, <72 hours may be sufficient to decrease length of hospital stay.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy as a long-term solution for severe feeding problems in children

Enteral feeding is a common problem in children with gastric emptying disorders. Traditional feeding methods in these patients often show a high rate of complications and maintenance issues. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy (LRFJ) has been described in a few patients as a minimal invasive option for enteral access in these children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of the LRFJ procedure in our tertiary referral center. We conducted a retrospective case-series including all patients, aged 0-18 years old, that underwent a LFRJ procedure between August 2011 and December 2020 for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. Outcomes evaluated were complications (short and long term) and parenteral satisfaction. In total, 12 children were identified that underwent LRFJ for the indication of oral feeding intolerance due to delayed gastric emptying. A total of 16 complications were noted in 8/12 patients (67%). Severity classified by Clavien-Dindo were grade I (n = 13), grade II (n = 1), and grade IIIB (n = 2). In 11/12 patients, parents were satisfied with the results.

CONCLUSIONS

Although minor complications after LRFJ are common in our patients, this technique is a safe solution in patients with gastric emptying disorders leading to a definitive method of enteral feeding and high parenteral satisfaction.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Traditional tube feeding in children (duodenal, PEG-J-tubes) with severe delayed gastric emptying can be challenging with a high rate of complications and maintenance issues. • Open loop jejunostomy and Roux-en-Y jejunostomy are alternative, permanent methods of feeding but either invasive or are accompanied by severe complications. Little is known in the literature about laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy.

WHAT IS NEW

• Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y feeding jejunostomy is a permanent, safe and minimal invasive alternative option for enteral feeding in children with severe delayed gastric emptying..

Postpyloric Feeding Access in Infants and Children: A State of the Art Review

Achieving postpyloric feeding access is a clinical challenge faced by the pediatric gastroenterologist in everyday practice. Currently, there is limited literature published on the topic. This article provides a practical summary of the literature on the different methods utilized to achieve postpyloric feeding access including bedside, fluoroscopic, endoscopic and surgical options. Indications and complications of these methods are discussed as well as a general approach to infants and children that require intestinal feeding.

Is Roux-en-Y Feeding Jejunostomy a Safe and Effective Operation in Children? A Systematic Review Exploring Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Roux-en-Y jejunostomy (REYJ) may establish feeding in children with foregut dysmotility or severe gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Nevertheless, concerns have been raised about safety and efficacy. We, therefore, evaluated outcomes of REYJ by systematic review to determine if this was a satisfactory option for achieving enteral autonomy in children with complex nutritional needs.

METHODS

A PRISMA-adherent systematic review was conducted of studies reporting children undergoing feeding REYJ. Two authors performed processes independently; the senior author resolved disagreements. Embase, CINAHL and Medline were searched (inception-01/21). Additional databases, references, and 'grey' literature were searched. Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) and a bespoke system assessed methodological quality.

RESULTS

Of 362 articles, 10 met eligibility criteria (9 retrospective series; 1 conference proceeding). Unpublished data were also attained. Interobserver agreement for MINORS (kappa = 0.47) and bespoke scoring (kappa = 0.58) were moderate. After consensus, median MINORS score was 37.5% (IQR 6.3%) and bespoke 50% (IQR 20.8%), indicating poor methodological quality. One hundred sixty-four patients were reported (age range: 2 months to 19 years). Time to full feeds and length of stay were inadequately reported but most achieved enteral autonomy. No studies reported patient/caregiver-questionnaires. Seventy-six complications were documented (Clavien-Dindo grading was infeasible). Morbidity included peristomal leakage (N = 26), internal hernia/volvulus (N = 8), and SSI (N = 7). Thirty-eight patients died (2 procedure-attributable) during follow-up (range: 1 month to 15 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Up to 50% patients experience complications after REYJ (often minor) with 23% patients dying during follow-up, often comorbidity-attributable. REYJ can achieve enteral autonomy although parents/caregivers of children should be counselled accordingly.

Trans-anastomotic tube feeding in the management of congenital duodenal obstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Feed intolerance is a common problem in neonates with congenital duodenal obstruction (CDO). Some surgeons insert trans-anastomotic tubes (TAT) to facilitate feed tolerance. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TATs in CDO.

METHODS

Medline, EmBase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library were searched till July 2020. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis was conducted using Random Effects Model.

RESULTS

No randomized controlled trials addressing the question were identified. In the 6 included observational studies, 96 infants underwent intraoperative TAT placement and 117 did not. Four studies reported benefits of TAT such as early attainment of full feeds and decreased need for parenteral nutrition. Two studies reported better outcomes in the no-TAT group. Accidental removal of TAT without clinical harm was reported in three studies [5/37 (14%), 4/17 (23%), and 2/4 (50%)]. Overall meta-analysis found no differences between the groups on any outcome. However, sensitivity analysis after excluding two studies with high risk of bias found that TAT tubes are associated with shorter duration of PN and shorter time to full enteral feeds. GRADE of evidence was very low for all outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence is limited regarding the efficacy and safety of intraoperative TAT placement in neonates with CDO. Well-designed RCTs are needed to address the issue definitively.

Feeding and nutrition in children with medical complexity

Providing adequate and appropriate nutrition to children with medical complexity (CMC) is often a challenging task. These patients are a diverse group whose varying nutritional needs must be carefully assessed and monitored. Optimal feeding and nutrition strategies in CMC require an individual approach and may include oral, enteral (gastric or jejunal), or parenteral provision of nutrients. Complications of enteral feeding, including those associated with medical devices such as feeding tubes, are common, and provider familiarity with some of the more common complaints is helpful. We provide here a summary of different feeding approaches, with exploration of the rationale for each, as well as discussion of common complications and some practical troubleshooting tips.

Classification of short-term complications after transanal endorectal pullthrough for Hirschsprung’s disease using the Clavien–Dindo-grading system

PURPOSE

Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a developmental defect of the enteric nervous system. Transanal endorectal pullthrough (TERPT) is one of the surgical procedures for HSCR. Clavien-Dindo is an objective classification system, used worldwide, to describe postoperative complications. The aim of this study was to use Clavien-Dindo grading for short-term complication after TERPT.

METHODS

This was a cohort study including all 69 individuals, with biopsy-verified HSCR, managed with TERPT at our institution between 2006 and 2018. Data on the surgical procedure, as well as short-term complications, were retrieved from the medical records. The main outcome was postoperative complications graded according to Clavien-Dindo.

RESULTS

Fifteen (22%) of the 69 patients (51 males) had a short-term postoperative complication graded according to Clavien-Dindo. The complications were Grade I in ten patients, Grade II in four patients, and Grade IIIb in one patient. Individuals with a Clavien-Dindo complication had a significantly longer post-operative hospital stay [median 6 days (4-30) compared to 4 days (1-22), p = 0.035].

CONCLUSIONS

It is important to describe postoperative complications in a structured way to make it possible to compare studies. Post-operative complications, according to Clavien-Dindo, occurred in 22% of the patients after TERPT.

The Superior Mesenteric Artery: From Syndrome in the Young to Vascular Atherosclerosis in the Old

This review is directed at increasing awareness of two diverse rare upper gastrointestinal problems that occur at opposite ends of the age spectrum and are difficult to diagnose and treat. The Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome (SMAS) likely involves a young patient, especially female, and is especially associated with rapid weight loss, resulting in relative strangulation of the duodenum by a narrowing of the angle between the Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) and the aorta. On the other hand, atherosclerosis of the SMA is associated most likely with postprandial upper intestinal ischemia and abdominal pain occurs in the elderly at high risk for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Medical management of the SMAS in the young involves good alimentation and weight gain to overall increase the intestinal fat pad. Medical management of SMA atherosclerotic ischemia in the elderly is directed at marked lipid lowering with atherosclerotic plaque stabilization or even regression. If needed, surgery for SMAS can be attempted laparoscopically with duodenojejunoscopy which is the most popular procedure but there are also more conservative possibilities that avoid division of the duodenum. In addition, sometimes direct vision is needed to successfully operate on SMAS. If surgery is needed for SMA atherosclerotic ischemia, it is usually attempted endoscopically with angioplasty and stent placement. Most important, in the case of these two rare clinical entities, is that the clinician have a suspicion of their presence when indicated so that the young or old patient can be spared unnecessary suffering and return to good health in a timely fashion.