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The Effect of Chewing Gum on Postoperative Gastrointestinal Function Recovery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Chaoyang Wang1, Bing Li2, ZiQian Wang2
1Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, China. wangchaoyang10475@163.com.
Annals of Surgical Oncology
|September 18, 2025
Summary
Chewing gum significantly speeds up gastrointestinal recovery after surgery by reducing time to first flatus and bowel movement. This safe, cost-effective intervention shortens hospital stays and lowers obstruction risk.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Recovery
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction is a common complication.
- Nonpharmacological interventions are sought to improve recovery.
- Chewing gum stimulation is hypothesized to enhance gut motility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of chewing gum for gastrointestinal recovery post-surgery.
- To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs.
- Searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases.
- Included 35 trials with 4,898 patients.
Main Results:
- Reduced time to first postoperative flatus (WMD = -12.19 hours) and bowel movement (WMD = -19.54 hours).
- Shortened hospital stay (WMD = -0.93 days) and decreased incidence of postoperative bowel obstruction (RR = 0.7).
- No significant effects on bloating, vomiting, nausea, or time to first feeding.
Conclusions:
- Chewing gum is a safe and cost-effective adjunct for enhancing postoperative gastrointestinal recovery.
- Recommended for inclusion in postoperative protocols to improve patient outcomes.
- Further research needed on long-term benefits and clinical implementation.
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