Our Summary

Crohn’s disease is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the digestive system. Despite strong medication, many people with Crohn’s disease still need to have surgery to remove parts of their intestines. If they need to have this surgery multiple times, it can lead to a condition called short bowel syndrome. This is a serious condition that makes it hard for the body to absorb nutrients, which can lead to other health problems.

People with short bowel syndrome might need to have nutrients given directly into their veins, although some people can manage with a special diet and medication. There are also surgical options to slow down how fast food moves through the digestive system, lengthen the small intestine, or transplant a small intestine.

Looking after people with short bowel syndrome requires a team of health professionals, including doctors, dietitians, and nurses. They work together to help improve the patient’s ability to absorb nutrients and improve their quality of life.

FAQs

  1. What is short bowel syndrome and how is it related to Crohn’s disease?
  2. What treatment options are available for people with short bowel syndrome?
  3. How does a team of health professionals assist in the care of a person with short bowel syndrome?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient with short bowel syndrome after intestinal resection is to follow a specialized diet plan. This may include eating small, frequent meals, avoiding certain foods that can worsen symptoms, and focusing on nutrient-dense foods to ensure proper absorption. Working closely with a dietitian can help create a personalized plan that meets the patient’s specific nutritional needs. Staying hydrated is also important, as well as taking any prescribed medications as directed. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are crucial to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients with other conditions that may require intestinal resection include:

  • Intestinal blockages or obstructions
  • Tumors or polyps in the intestines
  • Diverticulitis (inflammation or infection of small pouches that can form in the colon)
  • Intestinal injuries or trauma
  • Intestinal ischemia (lack of blood flow to the intestines)
  • Fistulas (abnormal connections between different parts of the intestines or between the intestines and other organs)
  • Severe gastrointestinal bleeding that cannot be controlled with other treatments

Ultimately, the decision to recommend intestinal resection surgery is based on the specific condition and needs of each individual patient, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Timeline

Before intestinal resection:

  • Patient is diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and experiences symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
  • Patient undergoes various treatments such as medication, diet changes, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms.
  • Despite treatment, patient’s symptoms worsen and surgery is recommended to remove diseased parts of the intestines.

After intestinal resection:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove parts of the intestines affected by Crohn’s disease.
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue post-surgery and will require time to recover.
  • Patient may develop short bowel syndrome, a condition that makes it hard for the body to absorb nutrients.
  • Patient may require nutrients given directly into their veins or may need to follow a special diet and medication regimen.
  • Patient may require further surgeries or other treatments to manage short bowel syndrome and improve their quality of life.
  • Patient is cared for by a team of health professionals to monitor their condition, provide support, and help optimize their nutrition and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of intestinal resection surgery for my specific condition?
  2. How many times can I have intestinal resection surgery before developing short bowel syndrome?
  3. What are the signs and symptoms of short bowel syndrome, and how can it be managed?
  4. What are the long-term effects of short bowel syndrome on my overall health?
  5. What dietary changes or supplements may be necessary after intestinal resection surgery?
  6. What other treatment options are available to prevent or manage short bowel syndrome?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after surgery?
  8. What support services are available for people with short bowel syndrome, such as dietitians or support groups?
  9. What are the potential complications of short bowel syndrome, and how can they be prevented or managed?
  10. How will short bowel syndrome impact my daily life and activities?

Reference

Authors: Limketkai BN, Parian AM, Shah ND, Colombel JF. Journal: Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2016 May;22(5):1209-18. doi: 10.1097/MIB.0000000000000698. PMID: 26818425