A self-regulating device for continuous reinfusion of jejunostomy effluent

The management of a patient with an enteric fistula producing a large volume of effluent is time-consuming and complicated. In patients requiring defunctioning procedures the eventual aim is restoration of intestinal continuity. Prior to surgery however it is prudent to ensure that the bowel distal to the stoma will cope with the sudden return to its normal role without diarrhoea or colic. This paper describes a simple, cheap, portable device which can be easily made. The device is closed, self-regulating and can be adjusted to patients' requirements.