International journal of surgical investigation
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Int. J. Surg. Investig. · Jan 2000
ReviewPeri-operative nutritional support: controversies and debates.
Malnutrition continues to be a significant problem in patients undergoing surgery. The relationship between a poor nutritional status and subsequent post-operative morbidity and mortality is well recognised. It is logical, therefore, that malnourished patients should be given nutritional supplementation in the peri-operative period. However, the benefits of this approach have been debated and as we enter the new millennium there are many questions regarding then role of peri-operative nutritional support that remain unanswered. ⋯ Patients most likely to benefit from peri-operative nutritional support can be defined. Enteral nutritional support has advantages over parenteral nutrition and the administration of key nutrients has clinical benefits.