[The use of chewing gum stimulates bowel motility after gynaecological surgery]

Post-operative ileus is a condition which occurs after abdominal surgery. The incidence of post-operative ileus after gynaecological surgery is estimated to be 10-15% (range: 5-25%). The highest rates occur after laparotomy. Chewing gum stimulates bowel motility after gynaecological surgery and reduces time to first flatulence and faeces. Data on reduction in ileus symptoms and reduced hospital stay are not sufficient. Chewing gum is well tolerated and this article recommends it for post-operative optimization.