Hypocaloric Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Administered in Intestinal Reconnection Postoperative Patients with 3–5 Days Oral Fasting Indicated: A Case Report

Abstract

Postoperative patients of intestinal reconnection in Morelia, Mexico, are usually in for 3–5 days of oral fast, which increases protein catabolism in the patient, thus lengthening their hospital stay and increasing the risk of developing metabolic comorbidities. Hypocaloric peripheral parenteral nutrition (HPPN) reduces proteolysis and improves inflammatory markers in these patients. The aim of this case report is to determine whether or not peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) improves inflammation, lessening the postoperative risk. A 62-year-old female patient and her cancer diagnosis and intestinal reconnection surgery are discussed. PPN is not commonly used in this type of patients due to the short duration of the fast, although its use is common before surgery. However, postoperative use can be beneficial as well, and given the delicate postoperative state these patients are in, it is worth it (at least in these cases) to give them all the strength and tools available for a better recovery. PPN in the case discussed herein improved the patient’s inflammatory marker levels in a shorter period.