[Enteral fistula as a postoperative complication--a case report]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Complications
• Nutritional Support

Background:

• Enteral fistula represents a significant postoperative complication.
• Treatment necessitates a personalized approach considering fistula characteristics and patient condition.

Observation:

• A patient developed an enteral fistula post-reconstruction after Hartmann resection for perforated diverticulitis.
• The patient's severe catabolic state precluded immediate surgical revision.

Findings:

• Nutritional parameters were improved through total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to achieve anabolism.
• Surgical intervention for fistula abolishment was successful after nutritional stabilization.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of nutritional optimization in managing complex postoperative enteral fistulas.
• A staged approach involving TPN followed by surgery can be effective in resolving severe cases.