Define Energy Requirements during Surgery?
The energy requirements of the patient should be based upon his present body weight which should be followed by a comparative assessment with his usual body weight (if data is available) or his ideal body weight. Adequate energy intake is important to build up weight deficit and build glycogen/adipose tissue reserves which are essential to provide energy lo the body immediately after surgery when the nutrient intake may not be adequate enough to meet the increased requirements. Depending upon their nutritional status the energy requirements of the patients would be as follows:
Underweight: - 35 Kcal/kg ideal body weight per day
Normal weight: - 30 Kcal/kg ideal body weight per day
Overweight: - 20-25 Kcal/kg ideal body weight per day