Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) for total parenteral nutrition

Total parenteral nutrition is an important measure in optimal treatment of patients under intensive care. Recently, the administration of macronutrients protein, carbohydrates, and fat has been extended to medium-chain triglycerides. Meanwhile, the well-known advantages of these fats in enteral feeding has also been confirmed for parenteral application. Medium-chain triglycerides are quickly removed from the blood, taken up by extrahepatic tissues, carnitine-independent transported into mitochondria, and oxidized more quickly than long-chain fatty acids. Simultaneously formed keton bodies from the liver may be an additional energy source. Medium-chain triglycerides, in combination with long-chain fatty acids for essential fatty acid supply, provide easily available energy and have a protein-sparing effect in patients after operation or injury.