Research advances in the application of early enteral nutrition in elderly patients with severe acute pancreatitis †

Abstract This article reviews research advances in the application of early enteral nutrition (EEN) in elderly patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Elderly SAP patients are associated with higher mortality rates due to age-related immune dysfunction, whereas EEN has been demonstrated to improve clinical prognosis, reduce infection and complication rates, and shorten hospital stays. However, ongoing debates exist regarding the optimal timing, route selection, and complication management of EEN. Through a systematic review of the literature, this study synthesizes current evidence on EEN in elderly SAP populations, critically examines unresolved clinical controversies, and proposes future research priorities to inform evidence-based practice.