Blenderized Tube Feeding and Enterostomy Tube Occlusions Among Adults with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Primary Lateral Sclerosis.

Adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) may develop swallowing difficulties and elect to receive an enterostomy feeding tube for nutrition support. Blenderized tube feeding (BTF) appeals to those interested in a homemade enteral nutrition option, but there are concerns of feeding tube occlusion and limited research on this potential risk. Therefore, our purpose was to determine the frequency of, and risk factors for, feeding tube occlusions among adults with ALS or PLS who use BTF.

Blenderized Tube Feeding: A Survey of Dietitians' Perspectives, Education, and Perceived Competence.

Increasingly, patients and their caregivers desire blenderized tube feeding (BTF) as an alternative or adjunct to commercial enteral formula. Although dietitians are central in the care of tube fed patients, they do not necessarily have training or experience with BTF and may therefore find it challenging to manage the nutrition of patients who opt for this enteral nutrition approach. To describe dietitians' perspectives, perceived competence, and education on BTF, a cross-sectional survey was conducted by use of an original questionnaire.