Preoperative parenteral feeding in Crohn's disease: preoperatively, to induce remission, and at home.

Extended courses of preoperative parenteral nutrition were used in eight cases of complicated Crohn's disease. Impressive gains in weight and strength were demonstrated, as well as radiologic improvement in the diseased bowel. It is recommended that preoperative parenteral feeding be carried out for a minimum of 20-30 days, in order that full nutritional benefits be realized, as well as the resolution of inflammatory changes in the bowel and supporting structures.