[Behaviour of serum phosphorus level during the postoperative period (author's transl)]

Behaviour of serum phosphorus and phosphate-excretion in urine has been observed during the postoperative period in 40 patients who obtained different amounts of phosphate-substitution. The findings were compared with 8 patients who had a phosphate-depletion syndrome. It was shown, that the appearance of hypophosphataemia during the postoperative period can be prevented by a daily supply of at least 25 mmol phosphate. If a phosphoate depletion syndrome has occurred, the substitution of 40 to 50 mmol phosphate and simultaneous reduction of caloric supply is recommended. Furthermore, routine control of serum phosphorus level and, if necessary, measurement of phosphate excretion in urine should be performed in any type of postoperative parenteral nutrition.