Intestinal failure and short bowel syndrome

Intestinal failure is a rare condition characterized by the inability of the gut to absorb sufficient nutrients and/or fluids and electrolytes to maintain health. These patients require parenteral (intravenous) supplementation. Short bowel syndrome is the most common cause and is typically secondary to extensive surgical resection. Intestinal failure requires management by a multidisciplinary team to provide nutritional support and facilitate intestinal rehabilitation. This involves surgery to restore intestinal continuity where possible, dietary modifications and medical therapies to modify motility and secretions, and increase intestinal absorptive capacity.
Source: Medicine - Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Tags: Malabsorption Source Type: research