This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS

Outcome of acute intestinal failure. BJS 2016; 103: 701-708.

Published: 21st March 2016

Authors: J. J. Atema, B. Mirck, I. Van Arum, S. M. ten Dam, M. J. Serlie, M. A. Boermeester et al.

Background

Type 2 acute intestinal failure is characterized by the need for parenteral nutrition (PN) for several months, and is typically caused by complications of abdominal surgery with enteric fistulas or proximal stomas. This study aimed to evaluate clinical management according to quality indicators established by the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland.

Method

Consecutive patients with type 2 intestinal failure referred to a specialized centre were analysed. Outcomes included the rate of discontinuation of PN, morbidity and mortality.

Results

Eighty‐nine patients were analysed, of whom 57 had an enteric fistula, 29 a proximal stoma (6 with distal fistulas), and three had intestinal failure owing to other causes. One patient was deemed inoperable, and nine patients died from underlying illness during initial management. Before reconstructive surgery, 94 per cent (65 of 66 operated and 3 patients scheduled for surgery) spent the period of rehabilitation at home. Discontinuation of PN owing to restoration of enteral autonomy was achieved in 65 (73 per cent) of 89 patients. Seven patients developed a recurrent fistula, which was successfully managed with a further operation in four, resulting in successful fistula takedown in 41 of 44 patients undergoing fistula resection. Three patients (5 per cent) died in hospital after reconstructive surgery. The overall mortality rate in this series, including preoperative deaths from underlying diseases, was 16 per cent (14 patients).

Conclusion

Intestinal failure care and reconstructive surgery resulted in successful discontinuation of PN in the majority of patients, although disease‐related mortality was considerable.

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