Our Summary

This research paper examines the effects of a new drug, FE 203799 (FE; apraglutide), on the growth and function of the intestine in baby pigs with a condition called short bowel syndrome (SBS). This condition often requires removal of a part of the intestine. The drug, which is an artificial version of a hormone called GLP-2 that helps grow the intestine, was given to the pigs after they had 75% of their intestines removed.

The findings showed that the pigs who received the drug had less fat and energy loss in their feces, suggesting better nutrient absorption. Their intestines also grew longer and heavier, with deeper and taller villi (small, finger-like projections that absorb nutrients) compared to those who received a saltwater solution.

In conclusion, the drug helped improve the intestine’s ability to adapt in pigs with SBS, showing promise for future use in treating this condition in newborns. This could potentially help them transition quicker from intravenous to oral feeding.

FAQs

  1. What is the new drug FE 203799 (FE; apraglutide) being studied for?
  2. How does the drug FE 203799 impact nutrient absorption and growth of the intestine in baby pigs with short bowel syndrome?
  3. Could the drug FE 203799 potentially help newborns with short bowel syndrome transition quicker from intravenous to oral feeding?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about bowel resection is to follow a proper post-operative care plan, which may include:

  • Following a specific diet plan to help the intestines heal and function properly
  • Gradually increasing physical activity to prevent complications such as blood clots
  • Taking prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection
  • Keeping regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor recovery progress and address any concerns
  • Seeking medical attention if you experience severe pain, fever, or other alarming symptoms, as these could indicate complications that need immediate treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for bowel resection include those with:

  1. Intestinal blockages or obstructions
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Intestinal tumors or polyps
  5. Trauma to the intestines
  6. Intestinal ischemia (lack of blood flow to the intestines)
  7. Intestinal perforation or injury

These conditions may require surgery to remove a portion of the intestine in order to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall health and quality of life. Bowel resection may be recommended as a last resort when other treatment options have been ineffective.

Timeline

Before bowel resection:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and/or bleeding
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, CT scan, and blood tests to determine the extent of the issue
  • Patient receives counseling on the procedure, risks, and benefits of bowel resection
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative preparation such as bowel cleansing and fasting

After bowel resection:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove the affected part of the intestine
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for complications such as infection, bleeding, and bowel obstruction
  • Patient may require a temporary or permanent ostomy to divert waste from the body
  • Patient undergoes post-operative care such as pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation
  • Patient gradually resumes normal diet and activities under the guidance of healthcare providers
  • Patient may experience changes in bowel habits, digestion, and absorption of nutrients
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and address any long-term issues such as bowel obstruction or malnutrition.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a bowel resection and why is it necessary in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with bowel resection surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after bowel resection surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet after the surgery?
  5. How will bowel resection surgery affect my ability to absorb nutrients and digest food?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or medications that could be considered instead of surgery?
  7. What is the success rate of bowel resection surgery in treating my condition?
  8. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after bowel resection surgery?
  10. Are there any clinical trials or new treatments, such as the drug FE 203799, that I should consider for improving my intestinal function post-surgery?

Reference

Authors: Slim GM, Lansing M, Wizzard P, Nation PN, Wheeler SE, Brubaker PL, Jeppesen PB, Wales PW, Turner JM. Journal: JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2019 Sep;43(7):891-898. doi: 10.1002/jpen.1500. Epub 2019 Jan 6. PMID: 30614011