The Effect of Semi-elemental Enteral Nutrition on Gastrointestinal Tolerance in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury: a Randomized Exploratory Study
Study Objective This clinical trial primarily aims to investigate whether semi-elemental enteral nutrition (SEN) improves gastrointestinal tolerance in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to evaluate its impact on clinical outcomes. The safety profile of SEN will also be assessed. Key Research Questions Does SEN reduce the incidence of acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI) in severe TBI patients? Study Design Participants will be randomized 1:1 into either: Intervention group: Receives SEN initiated within 48 hours post-injury and continued for ≥7 days. Control group: Receives standard enteral nutrition over the same period.
• Aged 18-75 years;
• Clinically diagnosed with closed traumatic brain injury;
• Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ≤ 8;
• Ability to initiate enteral nutrition within 48 hours post-injury;
• Expected need for enteral nutrition support ≥3 days based on clinical assessment (Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 \[NRS2002\] score ≥3).