Controversies of enteral nutrition in select critically-ill surgical patients: Traumatic brain injury, extracorporeal life support, and sepsis

Abstract

Adequate nutritional support for critically ill pediatric patients is an essential component of optimal care in the intensive care unit. For select patient populations in this setting, the enteral delivery of nutrients can bring unique challenges and potential risks. The focus of this paper is to provide a review of existing literature concerning the safety, efficacy and benefits of enteral nutrition in select surgical patient populations for whom these discussions are most controversial: patients with traumatic brain injury, patients receiving extracorporeal life support (ECLS), and patients receiving vasopressor therapy, such as in sepsis. Recommendations in the context of consensus or a call to investigate research gaps are provided based on a review of the evidence.