Evaluation of semi-solid enteral nutrients in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities through gastrostomy

Abstract

Decreases in gastroesophageal reflux and leakage of nutrients from percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), and improvement in feces condition have been reported as clinical effects of semi-solid enteral nutrients. In this study, we evaluated the effects of semi-solid enteral nutrients on the occurrence of complications, and on the injection time of nutrients in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities with PEG. We also evaluated its effects on patient activity. Improvement of digestive symptoms such as vomiting, air swallowing, defecation disorder (e.g.constipation), and reduced airway secretion were seen in the patients. We consider that such effects of the semi-solid nutrients led to improvement of quality of life.