Rj. Dimand et al., BEDSIDE PLACEMENT OF PH-GUIDED TRANSPYLORIC SMALL-BOWEL FEEDING TUBESIN CRITICALLY ILL INFANTS AND SMALL CHILDREN, JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition, 21(2), 1997, pp. 112-114
Background and Methods: The small bowel of critically ill infants and
small children was cannulated using a soft feeding tube with a pH sens
or at the distal tip. By monitoring pH, the tubes were guided through
the stomach into the small bowel. Results: Successful placements were
performed in 36 of 37 (97%) attempts in 29 critically ill patients who
se age was 7.9 +/- 6.3 months and weight was 5.9 +/- 2.6 kg. Continuou
s jejunal feedings were administered for 3.7 +/- 3.1 weeks without dif
ficulties or complications in all but one patient. Conclusion: pH-guid
ed jejunal tube placement provides a safe, easy bedside alternative to
fluoroscopic, endoscopic or surgical placement in critically ill infa
nts and small children.