Our Summary

This research paper discusses short bowel syndrome, which is a severe digestive condition that typically occurs when large portions of the small intestine have been removed surgically. This condition can cause a range of health problems such as chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, and if not treated correctly, death.

However, if more than 30 cm of the intestine is left, patients can potentially adapt and may not need special nutritional support. The recommended treatment involves a combination of long-term nutritional support and surgeries to lengthen the remaining part of the intestine. This approach is known as an Intestinal Rehabilitation Program.

The researchers applied this treatment to 16 children over various periods from 8 months to 7.5 years and found that 75% of them survived. The last option for children who have had all of their small intestine removed is an intestinal transplant, but unfortunately, no child in Brazil has survived this procedure to date, despite seven attempts.

The study concludes that the results of the Intestinal Rehabilitation Program are promising and suggest that more such programs should be established in pediatric care institutions.

FAQs

  1. What is short bowel syndrome and what are its potential health issues?
  2. What is the recommended treatment for short bowel syndrome and what is an Intestinal Rehabilitation Program?
  3. What was the outcome of the research study on the effectiveness of the Intestinal Rehabilitation Program in children?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient who has had a bowel resection is to follow a strict diet plan that focuses on easily digestible and nutritious foods. Patients may need to avoid certain foods that can be difficult for the remaining intestine to process, such as high-fiber foods, fatty foods, and dairy products. It is also important for patients to stay well-hydrated and to take any prescribed medications or supplements as directed. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for bowel resection are those with conditions such as short bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, colon cancer, diverticulitis, and other severe digestive conditions that cannot be treated through other means. In the case of short bowel syndrome, patients who have had large portions of their small intestine removed surgically may be recommended for a bowel resection to improve their quality of life and prevent complications such as malnutrition and chronic diarrhea.

Timeline

Before bowel resection:

  1. Patient experiences severe digestive issues and potentially chronic diarrhea.
  2. Patient may undergo diagnostic tests to determine the extent of the damage to the small intestine.
  3. Surgical consultation is scheduled to discuss the possibility of bowel resection.
  4. Patient undergoes bowel resection surgery to remove the damaged portion of the small intestine.

After bowel resection:

  1. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for complications such as infection or bowel leakage.
  2. Patient may require a temporary colostomy or ileostomy to allow the remaining intestines to heal.
  3. Patient begins a long-term nutritional support program to manage malnutrition and promote healing of the intestines.
  4. Patient may undergo additional surgeries to lengthen the remaining intestine and improve absorption of nutrients.
  5. Patient participates in an Intestinal Rehabilitation Program to optimize their digestive function and overall health.
  6. Patient’s progress is monitored closely by healthcare providers to ensure successful adaptation to the changes in the digestive system.
  7. Patient may require ongoing medical and nutritional support to manage any long-term complications of bowel resection.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about bowel resection may include:

  1. What is the reason for the bowel resection surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How much of my intestine will be removed during the surgery?
  4. Will I need a temporary or permanent stoma after the surgery?
  5. What is the expected recovery time after the surgery?
  6. Will I need special nutritional support or dietary changes after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of?
  8. What is the success rate of the Intestinal Rehabilitation Program for patients like me?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for my condition?
  10. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Tannuri U, Barros F, Tannuri AC. Journal: Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992). 2016 Sep;62(6):575-583. doi: 10.1590/1806-9282.62.06.575. PMID: 27849236