Abstract

Chylous leakage from the lymphatic system is a complex problem usually resulting from injury or abnormality of the thoracic duct. Although rare, when such leaks occur, they are often difficult to manage and correct. Nutrition therapy plays a major role in the conservative treatment of chyle leaks. This article will review the process of fat digestion and absorption, review selected references reporting nutrition interventions, discuss nutrition options for the treatment of a chyle leak, and provide information to implement such therapy.