Refeeding Syndrome

Written By: user

IJCP Editorial Team

Published On: 27 Dec, 2023 12:00 PM | Updated On: 27 Dec, 2023 12:00 PM

Refeeding Syndrome

Refeeding syndrome is a common but under recognized condition.

Many at-risk patients such as chronic alcoholism, liver disease, chronic pancreatitis, perioperative patients (bowel strictures, IBD, Koch’s), GI cancer (chemoradiotherapy), patients referred for feeding access, will come to GI service.

The key problems of refeeding are hypophosphatemia, thiamine defi ciency, salt and water retention (edema/left ventricular failure). Hypophosphatemia is a life-threatening problem.

Neuropsychiatric manifestations may occur due to thiamine defi ciency (Wernicke’s encephalopathy).

NG feeding – higher risk than those given IV fl uids or parenteral nutrition.

Baseline evaluation includes labs (blood counts, electrolytes, phosphates, calcium, magnesium), liver biochemistry, KFT, sepsis screen, ECG, Echo, NT-proBNP, chest X-ray and ultrasound.

Do not rush to give carbohydrates, exercise caution regarding fl uids. Document feeding protocol, adhere to it and audit periodically.

IJCP Editorial Team

Comprising seasoned professionals and experts from the medical field, the IJCP editorial team is dedicated to delivering timely and accurate content and thriving to provide attention-grabbing information for the readers. What sets them apart are their diverse expertise, spanning academia, research, and clinical practice, and their dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, the IJCP editorial team strives to provide valuable perspectives, the latest trends, and in-depth analyses across various medical domains, all in a way that keeps you interested and engaged.