The role of home parenteral nutrition in the management of intestinal failure - report of 400 cases.

Between 1977 and January 1991, 400 patients were entered on the United Kingdom Home Parenteral Nutrition (HPN) Register. Almost half suffered from Crohn's disease. Most commenced HPN while between 20-50 years of age. In terms of life quality while on HPN, most (63%) were able to work or look after their families unaided. A further 89 (22%) were able to cope with HPN independently. 221 patients ceased HPN during the study period, mostly (41%) due to intestinal adaptation. Of 69 patients who died, over half (57%) did so due to disease progression. Complications of HPN resulted in death in 22% of this subgroup. In terms of specific disease groups, those with Crohn's disease had the lowest mortality rate (8%).