Total parenteral nutrition.

Total parenteral nutrition has evolved as a distinct therapeutic reality within the past decade. Starvation or malnutrition need no longer be accepted as a necessary component of prolonged illness. Though current TPN techniques can be both safe and effective, the prevention of potential complications must always have a high priority. Changes in technique are to be anticipated as further knowledge and improved materials allow the pursuit of more basic clinical problems. The recent experience with the use of high caloric TPN solutions for prolonged gastrointestinal failure in 73 patients at the Loyola University Medical Center has been summarized. The need for the involvement of an experienced TPN team in the care of these patients cannot be overemphasized if the numerous and diverse potential complications of the TPN system are to be minimized.