Total parenteral nutrition

Parenteral nutrition is a form of therapy in which elemental nutrients (sugars, lipids, amino acids, vitamins and minerals) are given as an intravenous infusion. It is complementary and not competitive to enteral nutrition. While a vast majority of patients can be managed by enteral nutrition, a few patients need parenteral nutrition for survival. Very few patients may need both enteral and parenteral nutrition for short periods. The indications, delivery methods and formulations of parenteral nutrition have been refined in the past 30 years. It is now possible to give parenteral nutrition for prolonged periods at home. Three-in-one parenteral nutrition mixture bags are presently available in India. This article discusses the practical aspects of using parenteral nutrition in everyday practice.