Distal ileostomy drip feedings in neonates with short bowel syndrome

When a newborn infant presents with high intestinal atresia, the proximal segment of the bowel is usually grossly distended and atonic. The anastomosis of this segment to the smaller and unused distal segment will usually result in little or no propulsion of contents distally. Many techniques have been employed to correct this problem. A common surgical approach is immediate end-to-end anastomosis, followed by parenteral alimentation until return of normal function. This can take many weeks, and requires special attention to fluid loss and complications associated with parenteral alimentation. In this paper we report two infants in whom we utilized a new technique to circumvent these problems. The technique involves continuous drip ileostomy feedings through the distal ileostomy, while basic nutritional needs are being met parenterally. In addition, the secretions from the proximal stoma are collected and infused with the elemental feeding. The distal bowel, now being fully utilized, is stimulated to accommodate, and when the two ends are joined at a second operation, nearly normal anatomical bowel is present.