[Parenteral feeding. Prevention of complications in adults during exclusive mid-term parenteral feeding].

The benefits of parenteral feeding need no longer be emphasised. However, qualitative and quantitative food supplements raise a certain number of difficulties which should be better known. Infection is the most frequent complication. It may be avoided by strict aseptic precautions throughout parenteral feeding. Hypoglycemia is a major risk owing to the possible consequence. Hyperglycemia and its consequence of osmotic polyuria is more frequent and should be controlled to avoid loss of water and salt. Complications due to the use of lipid emulsions are exceptional when soya oil is used. Hypophosphoremia should be corrected by increasing phosphate intake. Hypocalcemia is common; it is often associated with hypoproteinemia and sometime a low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency or a sudden increase in phosphate intake. Vitamin deficiencies, hypomagnesemia, and oligo-element deficiencies should be correcty by appropriate supplements.