Metabolic changes after transperitoneal vascular interventions

: Thirty patients who had undergone transperitoneal vascular surgery were examined for hormonal disturbances and alterations of energy and protein metabolism. Of all hormonal alterations only the increased level of insulin activity in the early postoperative period is clinically important. The higher oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production together with the increased protein turnover indicate an elevated energy expenditure. In order to prevent decompensation of the hypermetabolic metabolism, a reduced nutritional support after major vascular surgery is justified.