We were very fortunate to be joined by a panel of experts from BAPEN’s Patient Network Group recently to answer questions on tube feeding, parenteral nutrition and all things artificial nutrition.
Food and feeding can bring plenty of questions when you or your child live with oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula (OA/TOF). Our Meet the Consultant evening brought together specialists to explore those questions, from feeding tube choices to making mealtimes a more positive experience.
The session began with an explanation of OA/TOF and surgical repair, before exploring challenges that can continue afterwards, including reflux, swallowing difficulties and respiratory problems.
The panel also explore the different options when it comes to tube feeding and how medical needs, everyday routines and personal preferences all play a part in finding a suitable fit along with everyday tube care matters,
Alongside changing nutritional needs during growth, the discussion covered dietitian-supported blended diets and support for children who find oral feeding difficult. A key theme was building positive experiences around food, with guidance from speech and language therapy.
A big thank you to our speakers for sharing their knowledge, and to everyone who sent in questions.
About BAPEN:
BAPEN is a charity that brings together health professionals to improve nutritional care for people with disease-related undernutrition.
