The use of Xylitol in long-term parenteral nutrition in dogs

Abstract

The interest in parenteral nutrition has been increased during the recent years. The use of parenteral nutrition as an adjunct in patient care has been applied to almost every branch of medicine. Practically all investigators administer a concentrated glucose solution as the sole source of non-protein energy in the United States. Since the solution is very hypertonic, central venous delivery via an indwelling catheter must be used to avoid or minimize any damage to the vein. However, metabolic difficulties as a result of the intravenous administration of hypertonic glucose, and sepsis due to the use of central venous catheter have been experienced (1–9). Thus, studies to use other sugars as glucose substitutes have been conducted, and limited attempts have also been made to infuse solutions which may be tolerated by the peripheral veins.

This investigation was supported by a research grant (GM-16432) from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Health, Education and Welfare.

Part of the results have been presented at the International Conference on Sugars in Nutrition held at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn. (U.S.A.) on Nov. 8–9, 1972.