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Postoperative feeding: a clinical review.
C Johnson Casto1, J Krammer, J Drake
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA.
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey
|September 7, 2000
Summary
Delaying postoperative enteral feeds is not supported by evidence. Early feeding after surgery is safe, well-tolerated, and leads to better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Nutrition
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Traditional practice involves withholding enteral nutrition post-surgery until ileus resolves.
- Emerging evidence supports early initiation of postoperative feeding.
- This review examines current literature and gastrointestinal physiology related to postoperative feeding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on early postoperative feeding.
- To identify patient suitability, risks, and benefits of early feeding.
- To explain gastrointestinal physiology after abdominal surgery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of basic science and general surgery studies.
- Analysis of gastrointestinal physiology data.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding postoperative enteral feeding.
Main Results:
- The tradition of withholding postoperative enteral feeds is not supported by scientific literature.
- Early feeding is safe and well-tolerated following most obstetric and gynecologic procedures.
- Evidence indicates early feeding decreases costs and shortens hospital stays.
Conclusions:
- Early postoperative enteral feeding is recommended for most obstetric and gynecologic patients.
- Implementing early feeding improves patient satisfaction and reduces hospitalization duration.
- This approach aligns with current scientific evidence and enhances patient care and economic efficiency.