Name of the Procedure:

Enteral Nutrition Infusion Pump, Any Type
Common name(s): Feeding Pump
Technical term: Enteral Nutrition Infusion Pump (HCPCS code: B9002)

Summary

An enteral nutrition infusion pump is a medical device used to deliver liquid nutrition directly into the stomach or small intestine for patients who cannot consume food orally.

Purpose

The primary purpose of an enteral nutrition infusion pump is to provide adequate nutrition to individuals who are unable to eat or digest food normally due to various medical conditions. The goals are to prevent malnutrition, support growth and development, and maintain overall health.

Indications

• Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
• Neurological disorders affecting oral intake
• Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease)
• Severe malnutrition
• Post-surgical recovery requiring temporary nutritional support
• Cancer treatment impacting the digestive system

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo diagnostic tests such as imaging studies or a gastroscopic examination to determine the appropriate placement of the feeding tube.
• Instructions will vary based on individual cases but may include fasting for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary as per the healthcare provider’s advice.

Procedure Description

1. Placement: A healthcare professional will place a feeding tube into the stomach or small intestine, often using a surgical procedure or endoscopy.
2. Setup: The enteral nutrition infusion pump is set up and programmed according to the individual's nutritional needs.
3. Connection: The feeding tube is connected to the pump, which then delivers the liquid nutrition at controlled rates.
4. Monitoring: Healthcare providers monitor the feeding process and make adjustments as needed.
   • Equipment Used: Feeding tube, infusion pump, liquid nutrition formula.
   • Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia may be needed depending on the method of tube placement.

Duration

The placement of the feeding tube generally takes about 30-60 minutes. The duration of using the pump for nutritional support can range from temporary (weeks to months) to long-term (years), depending on the condition.

Setting

The initial placement of the enteral feeding tube is typically done in a hospital or surgical center. Using the pump can be managed in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and at home.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist or Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist (if anesthesia is required)
• Registered Nurse
• Dietitian/Nutritionist

Risks and Complications

• Common: Soreness or discomfort at the tube insertion site, blockage of the tube, diarrhea or constipation.
• Rare: Infection at the insertion site, tube dislodgement, aspiration pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleeding.

Benefits

• Provides necessary nutrition when oral intake is not possible
• Helps in preventing malnutrition and associated complications
• Supports recovery and overall health
• Benefits are typically realized immediately after initiating the feeding regimen, especially in terms of maintaining adequate nutrition levels.

Recovery

• Post-procedure monitoring for any immediate complications
• Routine cleaning and maintenance of the feeding tube site
• Regular follow-up appointments to ensure proper functioning of the pump and tube
• Recovery and adaptation period can vary; some patients may experience mild discomfort initially but adjust over time.

Alternatives

• Oral Nutritional Supplements: Only an option if the patient can still ingest some food orally.
• Parenteral Nutrition: Direct delivery of nutrients into the bloodstream via IV for those who cannot use their digestive tract.
  • Pros of Enteral Nutrition: Uses the digestive tract, which is more natural and beneficial for gut health.
  • Cons of Alternatives: Higher risk of complications like infections and often more expensive.

Patient Experience

• During the initial tube placement, patients might feel some discomfort, but anesthesia helps mitigate it.
• After placement, patients may feel some soreness around the insertion site, which typically improves over time.
• Pain management includes local site care with pain relief medications as needed.
• The pump itself operates quietly and is designed for patient comfort, allowing for mobility and daily activities.