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International survey of enteral nutrition protocols used in children with Crohn's disease
Author(s) -
WHITTEN Kylie E,
ROGERS Paula,
OOI Chee Keith Y,
DAY Andrew S
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
journal of digestive diseases
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.684
H-Index - 51
eISSN - 1751-2980
pISSN - 1751-2972
DOI - 10.1111/j.1751-2980.2011.00558.x
Subject(s) - medicine , parenteral nutrition , protocol (science) , family medicine , medical prescription , disease , enteral administration , pediatrics , environmental health , intensive care medicine , alternative medicine , pathology , nursing
OBJECTIVE: Differing protocols have been utilized in published studies evaluating exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) in the management of active pediatric Crohn's disease. This study aimed to ascertain the protocols currently utilized in different pediatric centers around the world and to highlight their similarities and differences. METHODS: A questionnaire was circulated to individuals at pediatric centers in countries in Europe, North America and Asia–Pacific. Respondents were asked to indicate the number of children treated with EEN at their centers in the previous years and to provide details of their protocol used for administering EEN to these children. RESULTS: Responses were received from 35 separate centers (42% of those asked). The duration of EEN varied from <6 weeks to >12 weeks, but was most commonly 6 to 8 weeks. Although 23 different formulas were utilized across the centers, most (90%) used polymeric formulas. Flavourings were commonly added to formulas but wide variations existed between centers with the prescription of food and fluids permitted during the EEN period. The reintroduction of food after EEN also varied greatly: the most common recommendations were for an initial low‐fiber diet (26%) or the gradual introduction of food quantity as the formula volume decreased (52%). CONCLUSIONS: This questionnaire‐based study has shown the wide variations in EEN protocols used in different areas of the world. The development of consistent protocols may enhance the acceptance, efficacy and wider utilization of this therapy.