Enteral nutrition in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): Canadian practices

Abstract

Background: Dysphagia from ALS may be treated by enteral nutrition; however criteria for timing of feeding tube placement has not been well studied. The aim of this project was to better understand the practice of enteral nutrition management within Canadian ALS clinics. Methods: ALS clinics were asked if they had written guidelines for timing of PEG insertion and if not, what criteria they use to make this decision. Results: Responses from 10 of 17 clinics were received. One clinic had written guidelines. Most used decline in respiratory function, dysphagia, weight loss or some combination of all three. Six clinics reported dropping FVC, ranging from 70% to 50% as prompting tube insertion. Five clinics reported weight loss as part of their criteria. Dysphagia was reported as the most important factor by 7 clinics. Psychological readiness for tube placement was a key factor in 3 clinics. Some clinics comment they place tubes in advance of dysphagia. Conclusion: Criteria for tube insertion varies between clinics. Practices generally reflect published recommendations, but vary on the emphasis of specific criteria. The lack of strong scientific evidence to guide decisions may contribute to management variability. Further study is needed to guide practice.