Prospective study to evaluate the outcome of early enteral nutrition in severe acute pancreatitis.

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives: Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) affects the nutritional status of the patient. This prospective study was carried to assess the tolerance and outcome of early enteral nutrition via naso-jejunal feeding tube (NJFT).Methods: 30 patients of SAP were given enteral feeding via endoscopically inserted NJFT within 48 – 72 hours of admission. The volume of the feeds was increased as per tolerance. The patients who tolerated the feed (Group A) and those who did not tolerate (Group B) were followed up by biochemical parameters, amount and duration of feeding. The patient outcome noted and the results statistically analyzed. Results: 27 (90%) patients tolerated the feed, reached the goal feed volume and were subsequently started on oral feeds. No complication related to NJFT insertion was encountered. A significantly higher ICU stay (p=0.04) and number of complications (p = 0.048) was observed in Group B patients than in Group A. All nutritional parameters improved in patients in Group A with significant improvement in serum calcium, serum albumin and fasting blood glucose levels. Conclusion: Enteral nutrition is an economical and effective way to provide nutrition to patients with severe acute pancreatitis. The patients who tolerated feeds had less morbidity, mortality and hospital stay.