omega-3 Fatty Acids Have No Impact on Serum Lactate Levels After Major Gastric Cancer Surgery

Background: Preoperative and intraoperative nutrition support in patients undergoing major surgery results in decreased incidence of morbidity and mortality. Studies investigating the role of omega-3 fatty acids in these patients are increasing. Some are focused on perfusion at the cellular level. This study was undertaken to address the effect of postoperative administration of omega-3 fatty acids on cellular hypoperfusion associated with major gastric surgery. Methods: Twenty-six patients undergoing gastric cancer surgery were randomly assigned to receive parenteral nutrition (PN) supplemented with a combination of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids (Omegaven, 0.2 g/kg/d; Lipovenoes 10%, 0.6 g/kg/d) or with omega-6 fatty acid (Lipovenoes 10%, 0.8 g/kg/d) for 5 days. Blood samples were taken preoperatively, postoperative day 1, and on the last day of PN therapy (day 5). Results: Patients receiving omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids showed neither lower serum lactate levels nor lower rates of complications compared with patients receiving omega-6 only. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in other biochemical parameters, complications, or length of hospital stay or mortality. Conclusion: PN with omega-3 fatty acid supplementation does not have a significant impact on cellular hypoperfusion and lactate clearance after major gastric surgery. (JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2011;35:488-492)