[ importance of nutritional support for head injured patients]

Serious head injuries lead to any metabolic disorders such as, in particular a protein types cataolism and immunodepression. Early nutritional support for the patient in this case is definitely beneficial. It should be started as soon as the patient is out of danger. Enteral feeding should be preferred to parenteral feeding. In case of disorder of the bavel habit or of malabsorption, parenteral. protein-energy intake should be prescribed for a short period. In case of neuroagression, a suppementary intake of amino-acids [glutamine, arginine] seems beneficial for a betten immuniy defence system