TPN

[Guest guest]

Debbie,

Your Wrote, " I was just wondering if there is a problem with staying on TPN

for so long. "

There are different ways to look at this question. As a source of nutrition,

it provides everything you need, hence the name, 'Total Parenteral Nutrition.'

There are many, many people who have no other option than to receive TPN.

Usually, it is because of short gut syndrome. I have seen patients on TPN for

years. I was on TPN for several months due to relentless nausea and vomiting. It

was wonderful to not have to worry about eating, but, of course, there were

other mechanical concerns to deal with.

Gastroenterologists differ in their opinion about using TPN or a feeding tube

for a long term alternative route for nutrition. I wanted to rest my gut

completely, I was also personally opposed to a feeding tube. The proponents of

feeding tubes feel it is important to maintain gastrointestinal function as much

as possible. 'Use it or lose it', is their philosophy. It is difficult for the

gut to adapt when it has been inactive for a while.

Karyn E. , RN

Executive Director, PAI.

http://www.pancassociation.org

Pancreatitis Association International