Jpen Parenter Enter
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Jpen Parenter Enter · Nov 1993
Odd-numbered medium-chain triglycerides (trinonanoin) in total parenteral nutrition: effects on parameters of fat metabolism in rabbits.
Odd-numbered medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) might combine the advantages of "usual" MCTs applied in clinical nutrition with lower ketogenic action and the release of three carbon units. To test subacute toxicity, trinonanoin/long-chain triglyceride (LCT) (7/3 wt/wt) fat emulsions were given to rabbits (n = 8) for 11 days (7 h/d) within a total parenteral nutrition regimen at a dose of 46.5% of total daily energy. Comparisons were made with rabbits receiving equicaloric amounts of MCT/LCT (7/3, wt/wt) or pure LCT fat emulsions, as well as with orally fed controls. ⋯ The histologic examination of the gut mucosa revealed no distinct differences between groups. On the basis of the presented data, the trinonanoin/LCT emulsion showed no inferiority to "usual" MCT/LCT emulsions. The lower ketogenic effect as well as the marked increase in plasma short-chain fatty acid concentrations may encourage further testing of this substrate for total parenteral nutrition.
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Radiographic confirmation of enteral feeding tube placement is a common practice representing considerable expense and causing delay in the initiation of enteral nutrition therapy. We evaluated an enteral feeding tube with a pH sensor, which allows immediate verification of the location of the tube by assessment of the pH upon insertion. ⋯ The radiograph and the insertion pH profile were in agreement in 87.5% (21 of 24) of the cases. Concomitant use of histamine blockers did not affect the ability of the pH sensor to detect placement accurately (Fisher's Exact Test, p 5.71) Use of these pH measurements eliminates the need for radiographic documentation of placement, provides a savings for the patient, and may be beneficial in promoting enteral feedings in critically ill patients.
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Jpen Parenter Enter · Nov 1993
Case ReportsPulmonary embolism as a complication of long-term total parenteral nutrition.
Although much has been written concerning the complications of long-term total parenteral nutrition, little or no mention of pulmonary embolism is made in the literature. We present two patients maintained on home total parenteral nutrition who suffered pulmonary emboli, one while receiving standard heparin therapy. No potential source other than their indwelling total parenteral nutrition catheter was identified. ⋯ Future development of less thrombogenic catheters will also be of assistance. Thrombolytic agents currently have an expanding role in the treatment of thrombotic complications. Whether they will have a future role in prevention remains unknown.