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Enteral Nutrition Support of Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Author(s) -
Raykher Aleksandra,
Russo Lianne,
Schattner Mark,
Schwartz Lauren,
Scott Burma,
Shike Moshe
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
nutrition in clinical practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.725
H-Index - 71
eISSN - 1941-2452
pISSN - 0884-5336
DOI - 10.1177/011542650702200168
Subject(s) - medicine , dysphagia , percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy , malnutrition , head and neck cancer , parenteral nutrition , enteral administration , gastrostomy , weight loss , intensive care medicine , cancer , quality of life (healthcare) , surgery , peg ratio , nursing , finance , economics , obesity
Patients with head and neck cancer are at high risk for malnutrition due to dysphagia from the tumor and treatment. Despite difficulty with oral intake, these patients usually have a normal stomach and lower gastrointestinal tract. Enteral nutrition support via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) administered in the home by the patient helps to prevent weight loss, dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, treatment interruptions, and hospitalizations. It also improves quality of life. Successful management of these patients requires orderly care and follow‐up by a multidisciplinary nutrition team.