Tube feeding. Providing the most nutrition with the least discomfort.

In patients who cannot or will not eat, nutrition can be provided by enteral feeding through a gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube (or a nasogastric tube if use is to be brief). Endoscopic placement of tubes is increasing in popularity. Numerous enteral formulas have been devised to provide complete nutrition in a variety of circumstances, and special formulas are available for patients with malabsorption or hepatic, renal, or lung disease. Mechanical, metabolic, and gastrointestinal complications of enteral feeding are possible, but taking precautions by ordering specific techniques can reduce the risk.