Long-term peritoneal nutrition in dogs: metabolic and histopathologic results

In order to test the use of the peritoneal cavity in prolonged nutrition, seven dogs were fed for 22 days via peritoneal catheter. The nutritive preparations were composed of 10% crystalline amino acids, 20% fat emulsion, 40% glucose, trace elements, Na+, K+, insulin and a multivitamin compound. The caloric rate was 45kcal/kg/24h plus 0.5g/kg/24h of amino acids. These animals were compared to another group of six dogs, which were catheterized and infused with a 3% saline solution in addition to an oral intake of 45kcal/kg/24h. Both groups had free use of water. There was a case of slight peritonitis in one dog on peritoneal nutrition but no deaths and no weight changes occurred throughout the experiment. Increases in serum levels of TG, FFA and cholesterol were observed in the animals treated with peritoneal nutrition as well as a decrease in albumin serum levels. Peritoneal hyperplasia and phagocytosis were noted in the animals on peritoneal nutrition but no damage was recorded in other organs.