Clin Nutr. 2014 Sep 27. pii: S0261-5614(14)00238-6. doi: 10.1016/j.clnu.2014.09.010. [Epub ahead of print]

A systematic review with meta-analysis of survival, quality of life and cost-effectiveness of home parenteral nutrition in patients with inoperable malignant bowel obstruction

Naghibi M, Smith TR, Elia M.

A systematic review and meta-analysis assessed length of survival and quality of life of adult patients with inoperable malignant bowel obstruction in the palliative phase having home parenteral nutrition. Twelve studies (437 patients) were included. A meta-analysis of 244 patients showed a mean survival of 116 days, with a 45% and 24% survival at 3 and 6 months. Type of malignancy and performance status affected survival. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio is £176,587 per quality adjusted life year. This data can be used by clinicians to help inform and guide selection of potentially suitable patients for home parenteral nutrition.

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