An evaluation of peripheral essential amino acid infusion following major surgery

To assess postoperative progress 43 patients undergoing major abdominal procedures were randomized to be given normal postoperative electrolyte solutions alone or with the addition of 400 ml of essential amino acids. Postoperative measurements confirmed a nitrogen retention significant at 0.1%. Decreased breakdown of muscle was also shown by measuring the upper arm muscle circumference and by following the grip strength. Those treated had no significant muscle loss postoperatively but there was significant loss in those not receiving amino acids. The intravenous cannulae survived equally well in both groups. There was no demonstrable difference in the overall clinical progress.