A Survey of Various Issues Concerning Pediatric Nutrition: A Survey Analysis Using the 44th Kyushu Pediatric Surgical Congress Questionnaire

Abstract

Purpose: To survey various issues concerning pediatric nutrition by sending out questionnaires to the member facilities of the Kyushu study group of pediatric surgery.

Methods: Seven items were surveyed: 1. preoperative oral rehydration therapy (ORT), 2. use of semisolid formulas, 3.central venous catheterization, 4. trace elements, 5. carnitine, 6. use of Omegaven, and 7. nutritional support teams (NSTs).

Results: Responses were received from 24 out of the 25 member facilities. Eight facilities administer preoperative ORT, which is primarily utilized until two hours before minor surgeries such as inguinal hernia repair. Eleven facilities feed semisolid formulas to children with severe motor and intellectual disabilities and with gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is often fed to prevent diarrhea, with a bolus via gastrostomy. Seventeen facilities perform peripherally inserted central catheterization on infants. Ten facilities conduct home central venous nutrition. Eleven facilities have encountered trace element deficiencies. Fourteen facilities measure serum Se levels in patients receiving long-term total parenteral nutrition. Nine facilities measure carnitine levels, among which five encountered carnitine deficiency, which was treated by levocarnitine supplementation. Three facilities have used Omegaven for patients with short bowel syndrome and Hirschsprung disease. The symptoms of these patients were markedly improved. NSTs are now working in 23 out of the 24 facilities. Twenty-three of the 24 facilities had instituted an NST, and a budget is allocated for 17 of the 24 NSTs. NSTs are most often led by pediatric surgeons (11 facilities).

Conclusions: The current survey has revealed the present state of and issues related to pediatric nutrition in the Kyushu area.