A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of cisapride after colorectal surgery

The predominant factor prolonging hospitalization and delaying oral intake after colorectal surgery continues to be return of large bowel function. We investigated the effect of the cisapride on postoperative bowel motility.

Patients were started on cisapride versus a placebo on postoperative day 1 after colorectal surgery. Endpoints included the time to patients' first bowel movement, time of advancement to regular diet, time of hospitalization, and cost analysis. Results were analyzed using a Mann-Whitney test.

Thirty-five patients were entered in the study, consisting of 17 in the cisapride group and 18 in the placebo group. The median time to first bowel movement, advancement of diet, and hospital discharge was 1 day less in the cisapride group compared with the placebo group (P <0.05). There was a substantial cost savings in the study group.

Cisapride use results in statistically significant improvement in postoperative bowel motility. Cisapride should be added as adjunct treatment in postoperative care after colorectal surgery.