Long-Term Parenteral Nutrition through an External Arteriovenous Shunt

Abstract

An arteriovenous shunt with a side arm was used for the intravenous feeding of a patient who had bowel resected from the third part of the duodenum to the ascending colon and who could no longer be maintained by indwelling venous catheters. The nutrient solution is prepared in plastic bags by a procedure that minimizes contamination and permits preparation and administration at home. Infusion is given in a period of nine hours or less, a special pump, filter and valve being employed. The patient has been maintained in good nutritional status by this means for a period of many months.