Techniques and procedures for advancing feeds for children with intestinal failure due to short bowel syndrome: A narrative review

For children with intestinal failure secondary to short bowel syndrome, weaning parenteral nutrition and advancing towards enteral autonomy is a complex process that may take many years. Multiple factors impact feeding advancement in this population including oral feeding difficulties, feeding intolerances, and malabsorption. Oral and enteral feedings are vital in promoting intestinal adaptation and should be initiated as soon as medically appropriate. Oral feedings are also necessary to lessen the risk of developing food aversion. In this review, appropriate diet and feeding modalities for pediatric intestinal failure are discussed as well as complications that may impact feeding progression. The primary aim is to summarize current strategies to advance enteral and, particularly, oral nutrition, and make this information applicable for caregiver education.