Dilute elemental diet and continuous infusion technique for management of short bowel syndrome

Two infants with short bowel syndrome were successfully weaned from total parenteral alimentation by means of a continuous intragastric infusion through a gastrostomy of a dilute elemental diet. Each patient had received TPA for 9 and 3 months, respectively, and had failed to thrive while receiving other therapeutic formulas. Gradual transition to bolus feeling was accomplished in each infant after 2 1/2 and 2 months, respectively. Our results demonstrate that a continuous infusion of a dilute elemental diet in large volumes can provide adequate calories for growth and maintain positive fluid and electrolyte balance.