Weight loss resulting from the hypermetabolic response to burn injury is not unusual and is often unavoidable. The loss of retroperitoneal fat has been postulated as a major factor in the cause of the uncommon complication of superior mesenteric artery syndrome. This syndrome is frequently treated nonoperatively with aggressive nutrition support. Nasojejunal feeding past the point of obstructio...

The instigation of nutrition support, either via the enteral or parenteral route, in individuals unable to maintain adequate nutrition via oral means is based on the premise that such an intervention will reduce both morbidity and mortality and improve quality of life. While there is evidence that active nutrition support improves biochemical and physiological parameters, health professionals a...