Medical nutrition for children with cancer

Many children receive medical nutrition during their treatment. This can range from supplemental oral nutritional drinks to full tube feeding via a feeding tube, or the use of other nutritional products. Some young patients need tube feeding throughout their entire treatment, while others require it only during intensive phases of treatment.

Most young children, under four years of age, routinely receive a nasogastric tube for medication at the start of treatment. This tube can also be used for nutrition if needed. Tube feeding is often an essential tool to ensure adequate intake of nutrients when oral intake is not possible. It can also reduce the pressure to eat and help prevent conflict between the child and parents.

In general, tube feeding is indicated when a child consistently takes in less than 75-50% of their nutritional requirements.

Authorization for medical nutrition

When dietetic care is transferred to a (pediatric) dietitian closer to home, the authorization for medical nutrition is also transferred, if still applicable. The Princess Máxima Center mainly works with Sorgente, and occasionally with other service providers.