Nutrition on ECMO

Children on ECMO receive nutrition through tube feedings or IV nutrition (TPN). Care teams and dietitians adjust support based on each child's needs.

Tube Feeding

Some children on ECMO are fed through a small tube that goes into the stomach or intestine, delivering liquid nutrition. The type of liquid nutrition is discussed by the care team and depends on your child’s condition. 

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)

TPN is a special kind of nutrition delivered through an IV when a child cannot eat by mouth or feed through a tube. TPN supplies all the calories, vitamins, and minerals the body needs to grow and recover. Every child’s needs are different. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. The care team evaluates your child’s nutritional needs daily with input from our intensive care dietitian.