What are the complications of tpn?

Numerous. : Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a life-saving tool for patients that are unable to tolerate nutrition via their intestinal tract. Unfortunately, it comes with many potential side effects. Most notably is infection. Tpn is delivered intravenously and thus, the IV catheter is a route for blood stream infection. Other problems are high blood sugar, fatty liver and imbalances in electrolytes.

Short and long term: There are both short and long term complications of tpn. Short term complications include infections, and imbalance of electrolytes, fluid status and blood glucose levels. Long term TPN can result in loss of IV access and also liver injury and cirrhosis. If you remain on TPN for more than 2-3 months, you should be evaluated at an intestine failure center which may consider intestine transplant.