For which condition would gavage feeding typically be utilized in an infant?

Gavage feeding is a method in which a feeding tube is used to deliver nutrition directly to an infant's stomach. This technique is particularly beneficial for infants who have difficulty feeding orally due to various reasons, such as neuromuscular impairment.

In cases where an infant has neuromuscular conditions, their ability to suck, swallow, or coordinate these actions may be compromised, leading to inadequate nutrition intake. Gavage feeding ensures that these infants receive the necessary calories and nutrients to support their growth and development without the risk of aspiration or choking that might occur during oral feeding.

Using this approach for infants with neuromuscular impairments helps to address their specific feeding challenges while still meeting their nutritional needs effectively.