DELIVERING NON-PATHOGENIC, INTESTINALLY BENEFICIAL BACTERIA TO A PATIENT HAVING A FEEDING TUBE

摘要

Devices and methods for delivering non-pathogenic, intestinally beneficial bacteria to a patient having a feeding tube. Examples of non-pathogenic, intestinally beneficial bacteria that could be used include Bifidobacterium species and Lactobacillus species. In one embodiment, the bacteria is contained in a bacteria infusion device that comprises: (a) an internal chamber; (b) an outlet in communication with the internal chamber; and (c) the non-pathogenic, intestinally beneficial bacteria contained in the internal chamber. Another embodiment is a feeding tube comprising a flexible tubing and coating on the outer surface of the flexible tubing. The coating comprises an antimicrobial agent. Also disclosed are methods of administering a non-pathogenic, intestinally beneficial bacteria to a patient.