G.I Atrophy?

[YT2095]

ok, this is probably a Strange question but I am curious about it.

 

Imagine there is someone in a long term Coma, not life support or anything like that just a coma.

Obviously they get drip fed during this time so they don`t starve.

 

but what happens to the GI tract?

 

we know that Muscles will atrophy over this time, but how about our Inside workings for Food?

[Leison]

git has got its own independent set of nerve sys.Enteric nerve sys consisting of auerbach's n meissner's plexus.which doesnt need brain.

[YT2095]

agreed, but if it has nothing to digest...

 

what happens over time?

[Glider]

It will break down, but feeding during coma is usually via NG (Naso Gastric) tube if short term, or through a line inserted directly into the stomach or upper small intestine through the abdomen for longer term.

 

IV feeding is only used if the gastric system cannot be used for some reason (e.g. severe collitis, some kind of trauma, GI haemorrhage etc.). Long-term use of IV feeding can cause liver disease due to the build up of fats in the liver.