Chronic Intestinal Failure: Portuguese Overview and Future Perspectives
André Bargas1, Luisa Glória1, Jorge Fonseca2,3
1Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal.
GE Portuguese Journal of Gastroenterology
|April 30, 2026
Summary
Chronic intestinal failure (CIF) care in Portugal is improving with new national standards and multidisciplinary teams. However, further development is needed to meet European benchmarks for patient care and data collection.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Nutrition
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Chronic intestinal failure (CIF) necessitates long-term intravenous supplementation, impacting patient health and quality of life.
- European initiatives aim to standardize CIF definitions and home parenteral support, but significant international disparities persist.
- CIF care structures are still developing in many countries, including Portugal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of CIF care in Portugal.
- To analyze the impact of legislative changes and professional initiatives on CIF management.
- To identify progress and remaining gaps in aligning Portuguese CIF care with European standards.
Main Methods:
- Review of legislative documents and national health directives.
- Analysis of recent Portuguese and European studies on CIF care.
- Evaluation of progress towards implementing ESPEN quality-of-care standards.
Main Results:
- Portugal has made legislative advances, establishing a framework for home management and multidisciplinary nutrition support teams.
- Progress has been achieved in CIF care, but challenges remain in coordination, national registry data, and specialized services.
- There is a recognized need to improve CIF recognition and reporting within Portugal.
Conclusions:
- Legislative and professional efforts are crucial first steps for equitable, evidence-based CIF management in Portugal.
- Implementing multidisciplinary teams and adhering to ESPEN standards are key to enhancing patient safety, outcomes, and cost-efficiency.
- While Portuguese CIF care has advanced significantly, further efforts are required to reach European standards.
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