Enteral nutrition in maxillo-facial surgery

Authors report their experience in enteral nutrition (E.N.) on maxillo-facial surgery. From 1987 to 1989, 24 patients were subjected to enteral alimentation in the Department of Maxillo-Facial Surgery of the 2nd School of Medicine of "Federico II" University of Naples (Italy). 50% of patients suffered from head and neck tumours, and 50% suffered from traumatic lesions. Before treatment, patients' nutritional conditions were evaluated by anamnesis, azotic balance, hydroelectrolytic balance, anthropometric, bioumoral, and immunologic parameters. Basal energy expenditure was calculated through Harris-Benedict formula. Patients were checked every week, and E.N. allowed a rapid and adequate caloric increase.