American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 4, 642-646, Copyright © 1956 by The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Inc.

Some Recent Developments in Oral Feedings for Optimal Nutrition in Burns

¹ From the Surgical Research Unit, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas

Improved techniques in the management of burns have increased the number of survivors, which in turn has re-emphasized the problems of convalescence. Convalescence may be shortened by optimal nutrition.

Protein losses after burns are quite extensive. In eight patients on metabolic study, the average daily protein loss for the 33 days of the catabolic period was 166 grams. Although the patients were in negative nitrogen balance during this period, they were not severely depleted and wounds healed well.

The problem of nutrition in the severely burned patients seems to be prevention of protein depletion. Some type of high protein supplemental feedings is required because the patient is usually unable to take an adequate amount of protein from the hospital tray.

During the past four years Provimalt, a palatable high protein supplement, has been found to be most efficacious in the treatment of more than 600 burned patients. Its chief advantage is that patients accept it over the entire course of prolonged convalescence.

This article has been cited by other articles:

				P. W. Curreri, D. Richmond, J. Marvin, and C. R. Baxter Classic Article: Dietary Requirements of Patients with Major Burns Nutr Clin Pract, June 1, 2001; 16(3): 169 - 172. [PDF]