Diseases of the colon and rectum
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
A prospective randomized controlled trial of sugared chewing gum on gastrointestinal recovery after major colorectal surgery in patients managed with early enteral feeding.
A number of small prospective studies with conflicting results have evaluated the effect of sugar-free chewing gum on postoperative GI recovery in patients initially maintained nil per os after major colorectal surgery. ⋯ There does not appear to be any benefit to sugared chewing gum in comparison with no gum in patients undergoing major colorectal surgery managed with early feeding in the postoperative period. There may be increased incidence of bloating, indigestion, and eructation, possibly related to swallowed air during gum chewing.
-
Long-term consequences of anastomotic leak after restorative proctectomy for rectal cancer, in terms of bowel function and quality of life, have been poorly delineated. ⋯ Anastomotic leak after restorative resection for rectal cancer leads to early adverse consequences on bowel function and quality of life even when anastomotic continuity can be maintained. These findings may help counsel patients and clinicians regarding anticipated outcomes over the long term.
-
Fecal incontinence is a common debilitating condition. ⋯ The preliminary results suggest sacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a promising noninvasive alternative to existing modalities in the treatment of idiopathic fecal incontinence.
-
The impact of previous abdominal surgeries on the need for conversion to open surgery and on short-term outcomes during/after laparoscopic colectomy was retrospectively investigated. ⋯ The incidence of successfully completed laparoscopic colectomy after previous abdominal surgery remains high, and the short-term outcomes are acceptable.
-
The transversus abdominis plane block has been used as a component of postoperative analgesia after hysterectomy and open abdominal surgery. This block involves the injection of anesthetic between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscles. We demonstrate an improved method by the use of laparoscopic guidance for transversus abdominis plane blocks. ⋯ The transversus abdominis plane block is useful as an adjunct to reduce postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Our method for transversus abdominis plane blocks with the use of laparoscopy is easily performed at the conclusion of any laparoscopic procedure. Prospective randomized trials are necessary to assess the significance of these blocks in postoperative pain control, length of stay, and cost benefit.