Our Summary

Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) is a serious condition where a person’s intestine doesn’t function properly, making it hard for the body to absorb nutrients and water. This means they often need to be given these things through a vein to stay healthy.

After about two years, the body naturally tries to adapt to this situation by increasing hormone secretion, eating more, and changing the gut’s bacteria. These changes can improve nutrient absorption and decrease the need for intravenous supplementations.

Recently, hormone treatments that boost this natural adaptation process have been recommended for patients with SBS. One such treatment, a drug called teduglutide, has been shown to increase the production of urine and reduce the need for intravenous supplements in patients with SBS.

Furthermore, according to the latest guidelines, if a growth factor treatment is considered, teduglutide should be the first choice.

However, these treatments also highlight the importance of monitoring the patient at home and the difficulty in adjusting to home parenteral nutrition (the process of receiving nutrients intravenously).

Therefore, dealing with SBS should involve a team of different healthcare professionals, ensuring the best possible care for the patient.

FAQs

  1. What is short bowel syndrome (SBS) and how is it related to chronic intestinal failure?
  2. What is the role of teduglutide in the treatment of patients with SBS?
  3. What changes occur in the body two years after a bowel resection?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing bowel resection to follow a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to promote healthy bowel function. They may also recommend gradually increasing physical activity to help with recovery and prevent constipation. Additionally, the doctor may suggest keeping a food diary to track any foods that may cause discomfort or exacerbate symptoms. Regular follow-up appointments with the doctor are important to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for bowel resection include those with short bowel syndrome (SBS) who have chronic intestinal failure (IF) and require intravenous supplementation to maintain health and/or growth. These patients may benefit from bowel resection to improve intestinal absorption and decrease dependency on parenteral nutrition. Additionally, patients with SBS who have undergone spontaneous intestinal adaptation, hormonal treatments, or growth factor treatments may also be recommended for bowel resection. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for the monitoring and management of these patients.

Timeline

Before bowel resection:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and weight loss.
  • Patient undergoes various diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, CT scans, and blood tests to determine the need for surgery.
  • Surgery is recommended as a treatment option for conditions such as bowel obstruction, Crohn’s disease, or colon cancer.

After bowel resection:

  • Following surgery, the patient may experience pain, fatigue, and nausea as they recover in the hospital.
  • A temporary colostomy or ileostomy may be necessary to allow the bowel to heal properly.
  • The patient gradually resumes eating solid foods and may require a modified diet to aid in digestion.
  • Over time, the patient may experience changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency or consistency of bowel movements.
  • The patient may require ongoing monitoring and support from healthcare providers to manage any complications or long-term effects of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the reason for the bowel resection surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with bowel resection?
  3. How long is the recovery period after bowel resection surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after the surgery?
  5. What can I expect in terms of bowel function and digestion after the surgery?
  6. Will I need to take any medications or supplements following the surgery?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments to monitor my progress?
  8. Are there any specific signs or symptoms I should watch for that may indicate a complication after the surgery?
  9. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies to support my digestive health following the surgery?
  10. What are the long-term implications of bowel resection surgery for my overall health and well-being?

Reference

Authors: Billiauws L, Joly F. Journal: Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2019 Mar;13(3):241-246. doi: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1569514. Epub 2019 Feb 7. PMID: 30791759