Multidisciplinary Postoperative Ileus Management: A Narrative Review

Postoperative ileus is a prolonged impairment of gastrointestinal motility following surgical procedures. This often leads to increased morbidity, extended hospital stays, and high healthcare expenditures. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology underlying postoperative ileus, its epidemiology, and perioperative management strategies. Patient characteristics, as well as expected perioperative course, could be used to stratify the risks of postoperative ileus. Preventive measures hinge upon a multimodal approach, minimally invasive surgical techniques, fluid management, early postoperative ambulation, and opioid-sparing analgesia strategies. Adjuvant interventions such as alvimopan, caffeine, and chewing gum have demonstrated efficacy in modulating the neurogenic and inflammatory components of postoperative ileus. Minimally invasive approaches, comprehensive perioperative management, and adjuvant therapies hold promise for prevention. Current management relies heavily on supportive care, underscoring the need for research into the underlying neurogenic and inflammatory mechanisms to guide the development of targeted treatments.