funnel feeding, a technique in which liquids may be given orally to a patient who cannot move the lips or masticate, such as after surgery on the mouth or lips. A rubber tube attached to a funnel is placed in the mouth, usually at one corner, and a liquid is poured slowly through the funnel and tube into the mouth near the back of the tongue. The patient quickly learns to control the flow with sucking action and tongue position. If the method is used for a weak or young infant, a rubber bulb or a large syringe may be used instead of a funnel. The bulb or syringe is compressed gently, slowly, and continuously to control the rate of flow and prevent choking.
