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The gastrointestinal tract after anaesthesia
1University Department of Anaesthesia, Leicester Royal Infirmary, UK.
European Journal of Anaesthesiology. Supplement
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Post-operative gastrointestinal dysfunction, including delayed gastric emptying and ileus, can be caused by surgery, anesthesia, and opioids. Prokinetic agents like cisapride may help counteract these effects, improving patient recovery and drug absorption.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Recovery
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Post-operative gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility can be significantly reduced, leading to delayed gastric emptying.
- Factors contributing to this include surgery, anesthetic agents, and opioid analgesics used for pain management.
- These GI alterations can impede patient mobilization and affect oral drug absorption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the impact of post-operative gastrointestinal dysfunction on patient recovery.
- To investigate the potential of prokinetic agents in mitigating these effects.
- To discuss the implications of GI changes on drug absorption and anastomotic integrity.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on post-operative GI motility alterations.
- Analysis of the role of surgical procedures, anesthesia, and opioids.
- Examination of the efficacy of prokinetic agents, such as cisapride.
- Discussion of complications like post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and anastomotic leakage.
Main Results:
- Opioids and surgical stress are primary contributors to reduced GI motility and delayed gastric emptying.
- Prokinetic agents show potential in antagonizing these negative effects.
- Post-operative ileus and PONV can delay mobilization and oral medication administration.
- Increased bowel contractility, potentially influenced by neostigmine and morphine, may be linked to anastomotic dehiscence.
Conclusions:
- Post-operative GI dysfunction presents significant challenges to patient recovery and necessitates management strategies.
- Prokinetic agents offer a therapeutic avenue to restore GI motility.
- Careful consideration of factors influencing GI function is crucial for optimizing post-operative care and preventing complications like anastomotic leakage.