The role of voluntary tubefeeding in treating critically low weight patients with anorexia nervosa

This study examined the role of voluntary tubefeeding in critically low weight anorexia nervosa patients, defined as 25% or greater below desirable body weight (DBW). Outcome criterion was achievement of weight gain to 80% of DBW at discharge and at one year of follow-up.;At discharge, 80% of the tubefed group gained weight to 80% of DBW compared to 30% of the non-tubefed group. No medical or psychiatric complications from the tubefeeding occurred. Both groups maintained gains made during hospitalization at one year of follow-up. It is concluded that tubefeeding is a safe and effective treatment for weight restoration in critically low weight patients with anorexia nervosa.;Two groups of patients admitted to an inpatient eating disorders program at Hahnemann Hospital (HHEDP) were compared. Ten patients were admitted directly into the HHEDP and ten patients received tubefeeding for approximately two weeks before admission into the HHEDP.