Feeding tubes are medical devices that provide nutrition for patients who simply cannot swallow food due to certain medical conditions. Feeding tubes may be used temporary in case of acute medical conditions or they are used for the rest of patients' lives which is common for chronic disabilities. There is a variety of feeding tubes and the doctor decides which one is most suitable for each patient.
The best thing associated with feeding tubes is that they provide nutrition and intake of food. This way feeding tubes prevent malnutrition and many more complications. However, there are also certain disadvantages which make them not so perfect devices.
Pros and Cons of Feeding Tubes in Babies
Feeding tubes are very important for babies whose gestational age is less than 33 weeks. They are also inserted in babies if their weight is less than 3 pounds. Premature babies are not fully developed. Therefore, the sucking and swallowing is not strong enough and properly coordinated and they require assistance in nutrition. So, advantage of feeding tubes reflects in their ability to transfer the food into the stomach and allow intake of sufficient amount of necessary nutrients.
On the other side, if babies are fed by feeding tubes for longer period of time they may develop hyper-extension of the neck accompanied by scapular adduction and shoulder girdle elevation. Furthermore, feeding tubes may cause respiratory disorders. These disorders are usually associated with arrhythmic breathing pattern. This is why feeding tubes in babies are discontinued once the baby becomes able to swallow food normally.
Pros and Cons of Feeding Tubes in Elderly
Feeding tubes are also inserted in elderly people with critical health and those who are already suffering from many disabling illnesses. It is normal for digestive health to diminish during the process of aging. This is why very old people suffer from poor digestive abilities. They require feeding tubes and this way their bodies receive sufficient amount of food. Furthermore, feeding tubes in elderly are also necessary in case of trauma or surgery and after a stroke. In patients suffering from terminal stage of various cancers which affect the upper digestive tract feeding tubes are indispensable.
Still, even in case of adults feeding tubes have several disadvantages. These medical devices are generally uncomfortable. This is particularly reported if the tube is not inserted properly. The body also needs some time to adapt to liquid food. In case of leakage at the site of insertion there is a chance of infections. Definitely the most serious problem and disadvantage of feeding tubes is possibility of clogging. To prevent clogging the feeding tube must be cleaned prior and after every meal. And finally, the very presence of feeding tubes makes many patients depressive and they eventually lose interest in meals.
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