Advancements and Future Trends in Enteral Tube Feeding Pump Technology: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Enteral feeding through tubes has served an important role in providing food to people who cannot satisfy their daily calorie and nutrient needs through oral consumption alone. Advances in feeding through enteral tube pump technologies have improved the precision, safety, and adaptability of enteral nutrition delivery over time. These advances have resulted in improved outcomes for patients as well as improved clinical workflows.

Aim: In this comprehensive appraisal of existing evidence, we aim to synthesize current data on the technological refinements, clinical applications, and future tendencies in enteral tube feeding pump innovation.

Methods: To conduct this review, we employed a systematic search strategy across multiple databases, pinpointing applicable studies released between 2000 and 2024. Thematic examination was then applied to classify the findings into key themes. These themes comprised improvements in nutritional status, quality of life, and complication rates. Additionally, we explored technological enhancements for example precision sensors, user-friendly interfaces, digital health integration, and progressed alarm systems.

Result: Our analysis highlights the positive impact of modern enteral feeding pumps on patient care. Numerous investigations have demonstrated enhanced nutritional adequacy, reduced adverse occurrences, and improved caregiver satisfaction. However, we also pinpointed several gaps in research, such as the confined integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the necessity for continuous surveillance functionalities, and the lack of thorough cost-effectiveness examinations.

Conclusion: As enteral tube feeding advances in technology, future enhancements may include customized nutrition programs specific to each person's needs, cooperation with mobile devices and digital medical records to allow for immediate evaluation and guidance, and investigation of ethical concerns surrounding the use of advanced technologies. Addressing these gaps in research and cultivating collaborative efforts among engineers, doctors, and patients will be crucial in driving the development of more effective, user-centered, and sustainable enteral nutrition solutions focused on improving outcomes and quality of life.