PLURAL LUMEN GASTROSTOMY TUBE INSERT FOR PLACEMENT INTO THE DUODENUM AND METHOD OF MONITORING AND MANAGING FEEDING

摘要

A feeding tube assembly for feeding in the gastrointestinal tract of a patient continuously aspirates and feeds at a rate commensurate with the ability of the intestines to absorb nutrients. The feeding tube assembly aspirates air to reduce the likelihood of distension in response to air and excess fluids in the gastrointestinal tract. Digestive juices and nutrients that are aspirated are refed together with unused feeding material into the gastrointestinal tract at a location that more efficiently moves and digests the food. The assembly includes two aspirate reservoirs to and from which aspirate is alternatingly transferred. To provide the continuous and alternating flow, a solenoid valve and timer switch device is provided.