Risk Factors for Prolonged Postoperative Ileus in Adult Patients Undergoing Elective Colorectal Surgery: An...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Clinical Epidemiology

Background:

• Prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI) negatively impacts patient recovery after abdominal surgery.
• Standardized definitions and risk factor identification for PPOI are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of PPOI in patients undergoing elective colorectal resection.
• To identify perioperative variables associated with the development of PPOI.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 428 patients undergoing colorectal resection over a five-year period.
• PPOI defined by nasogastric tube insertion, nausea, vomiting, and absence of bowel function.
• Data extracted from an electronic, prospectively maintained database.

Main Results:

• The incidence of PPOI was 7% (95% CI, 4.8-9.9%), associated with an 8-day longer hospital stay.
• Univariate analysis identified male gender, cancer, comorbidities, rectal resection, open access, operation duration, stoma, and BMI as associated factors.
• Independent predictors of PPOI included male gender (OR 4.2), stoma formation (OR 2.8), and obesity (OR 3.8).

Conclusions:

• PPOI significantly prolongs hospital stay and hinders recovery following colorectal resection.
• An international standardized definition for PPOI is necessary for comparable research and improved preventive strategies.
• Identifying high-risk patients through reliable metrics can enhance therapeutic policies.