Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a relatively new innovation in patient care which allows us to replace and maintain essential nutrients in patients in whom oral or tube feedings are contraindicated or inadequate. Insertion of a catheter into a large central vein permits one to concentrate hypertonic dextrose calories in normal daily fluid requirements. In addition, TPN solutions contain synthetic amino acids or protein hydrolysates, macroelements, electrolytes, and vitamins. Indications for TPN include intestinal fistulas, severe short bowel syndrome, unresolving pancreatitis, advanced inflammatory bowel disease, delayed postoperative gastrointestinal function, developmental anomalies of the intestinal tract, protracted diarrhea of infancy, and hypermetabolic states. Complications encountered in patients receiving TPN are catheter-related mechanical problems, infections, and metabolic abnormalities. In select patients, who otherwise would require repeated hospitalizations for malnutrition, encouraging results have been achieved by the use of TPN in the home.