Parenteral nutrition via an indwelling central venous catheter was undertaken at home over a total period of 24,747 days in 34 patients with the short-bowel syndrome (of various causes). In some of the patients there developed complete adaptation of the residual intestine so that parenteral nutrition could be terminated. Complications were: infection, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and metabolic problems. But the method proved to be suitable for improving the quality of life of these patients.