Abstract
The Introduction of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) by Dudrick in 1968 has led to its wide spread acceptance and use in nutritional support. As the result, in pateints suffering from massive small bowel resection or severe chronic bowel disease, long-term nutritional support became necessary. The hospitalization of these patients has caused some probrems like restriciton of activity, psychological stress, and so on. To solve these problems, we have treated 8 patients, with ranges of age 6 months to 15 years, on an intermittent TPN program for 157 patients months. Patients in this program achieved a satisfactory physical growth and mental development. All resumed group activities and six patients were able to return to their home. No major complications were noted in this method. Administration of the intermittent TPN is a safe and succesful techniqe for maintaining an optimal nutritional status in children with severe digestive disorders, and permits resumption of a more normal daily lifestyle.
