Our Summary

This research paper examines the benefits of eating early after colorectal surgery. The study looked at patients who had a colectomy and proctectomy (surgical procedures to remove parts of the colon and rectum) between January 2015 and November 2018. The results showed that patients who ate soon after their surgery had a lower chance of health issues within 30 days of the procedure and a shorter hospital stay. There was no increase in serious health problems. Additionally, the cost of the hospital stay was cheaper for those who ate early. The researchers concluded that eating early after such surgeries is safe, can improve recovery, and should be encouraged to reduce both the risk of complications and healthcare costs.

FAQs

  1. What are the benefits of eating early after colorectal surgery according to the research?
  2. Did the study find any increase in serious health problems for patients who ate early after colorectal surgery?
  3. How does early eating after colorectal surgery impact the duration of the hospital stay and the associated costs?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colorectal surgery is to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions closely, including any dietary recommendations. Eating early after surgery, as shown in this study, can help improve recovery and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to listen to your body and gradually introduce solid foods as recommended by your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for colorectal surgery include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer: Surgery is often the primary treatment for colorectal cancer, especially in the early stages.

  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Patients with severe ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease may require surgery to remove diseased portions of the colon or rectum.

  3. Diverticulitis: Severe cases of diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, may require surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon.

  4. Polyps: Patients with large or precancerous polyps in the colon may require surgery to remove them and reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

  5. Bowel obstruction: Surgery may be necessary to remove a blockage in the colon or rectum that is causing bowel obstruction.

  6. Rectal prolapse: Patients with rectal prolapse, a condition in which the rectum protrudes from the anus, may require surgery to correct the issue.

  7. Fecal incontinence: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to treat severe fecal incontinence that does not improve with other treatments.

Overall, colorectal surgery may be recommended for a variety of conditions affecting the colon and rectum, and the decision to undergo surgery is typically made based on the individual patient’s specific condition and medical history.

Timeline

Before colorectal surgery:

  • Patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation
  • Patient may need to follow a special diet or take medications to prepare for surgery
  • Surgery is performed, often requiring a hospital stay of several days
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and limited mobility after surgery

After colorectal surgery:

  • Patient is closely monitored for any complications or signs of infection
  • Patient may be given medications for pain management and to prevent infection
  • Patient may gradually start to resume normal activities, including walking and eating
  • Patient may need to follow a specific diet to aid in healing and prevent complications
  • Patient may undergo follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor recovery and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with colorectal surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
  3. How soon after surgery can I start eating solid foods?
  4. Will I need any dietary modifications or restrictions after surgery?
  5. What can I do to promote healing and prevent complications after surgery?
  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the procedure?
  7. What are the signs of post-operative complications that I should watch out for?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after colorectal surgery?
  9. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for my specific condition?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with surgery?

Reference

Authors: Jochum SB, Ritz EM, Bhama AR, Hayden DM, Saclarides TJ, Favuzza J. Journal: Int J Colorectal Dis. 2020 Mar;35(3):465-469. doi: 10.1007/s00384-019-03500-1. Epub 2020 Jan 4. PMID: 31901948