PP137-MON THE CALORIC INTAKE OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING CARDIAC SURGERY

Abstract

Rationale: Nutrition plays a very important role in surgical patients. Malnutrition has been proven to be an independent risk factor in correlation to postoperative outcome. Little is known about the cumulative energetic intake of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, certainly when compared to their caloric needs. Methods: An observational study was conducted in patients undergoing elective CABG (Coronary artery bypass graft) or valve surgery at the University Hospital Brussels, from February 2012 to April 2012. Preoperative nutritional status was assessed using the NRS 2002, a blood sample and a clinical evaluation. Metabolic needs were calculated using the Harris Benedict formula. The daily caloric intake was objectified by a nutritionist, on the Intensive Care Unit and the ward. Intravenous solutions, parenteral and enteral nutrition were taken in to account in the caloric intake. The caloric deficits were determined. Results: Of the 19 patients that were included mean age was 70±10 years and 74% were male. Mean APACHE II score was 13±6. The Total Energy Expenditure was 2049±430 kcal/day. The Total Caloric Intake was 765±450 kcal/day (37% of the TEE). On 213 days of hospitalization, the energy deficit was 265,835±606 kcal. Only patients who received parenteral or enteral feeding (10%) achieved their recommended caloric intake on 4 occasions. Conclusion: Caloric deficits, although relatively easy treatable, are a major and underestimated problem in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery.