POLY-COMPONENT FAT EMULSIONS IN THE PARENTAL NUTRITION OF PATIENTS IN THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

One of the main problems in the departments of anesthesiology and intensive care is the lack of energy in patients. In order to solve it, parenteral nutrition, which contains fat emulsions is prescribed for critical patients. It is known that fat emulsions consist of essential fatty acids which can have both pro-inflammatory (linoleic acid) and anti-inflammatory (linolenic acid) effects. In order to reduce the impact on the immune system, the use of alternative fat emulsions is recommended, as this may provide better clinical results. The first generation of fat emulsions consisted of soybean oil, but it was proven that this oil can increase the risk of purulentseptic complications. Second-generation fat emulsions contain medium-chain triglycerides, the metabolism of which can lead to acidosis, so their use is limited, especially in patients with diabetes. Third-generation fat emulsions contain olive oil, which reduces the risk of thrombosis, is considered immunoneutral and less sensitive to lipid peroxidation. Fourth-generation fat emulsions contain fish oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the duration of patients staying in critical condition. The most promising is the usage of balanced fats, among which there is a 20% SMOFlipid available in Ukraine. For patients who require parenteral nutrition, fat emulsions are an integral part of it, and for critically ill patients fat emulsions containing fish oil are recommended. However, it is recommended to assess baseline triglycerides prior to administration. Thus, lipids provide the delivery of fatty acids that affect important body processes, including metabolism, immune response, blood clotting. Alternative fat emulsions can be a better source of energy, also showing antioxidant effects and less suppression of immune system.