[Parenteral hyperalimentation in the treatment of esophageal, gastric and intestinal fistulas (author's transl)].

Parenteral hyperalimentation and complete bowel rest reduce fistula output, and permit sufficient caloric and nitrogen intakes needed for healing. It corrects metabolic and nutritional deficiencies due to digestive fistulas, and allows spontaneous closure of fistulas in two out of three patients. If spontaneous healing is not obtained after six weeks of parenteral alimentation, surgical treatment may be undertaken more safety, as the patient will be in better nutritional condition.