Insights into the nutritional management of short-bowel syndrome

Abstract

Short-bowel syndrome is a malabsorptive state that occurs after resection of the intestine or, alternatively, secondary to the functional incapacity of the bowel to absorb a sufficient amount of nutrients. The clinical presentation of this syndrome is quite diverse and its severity is primarily dependent on both the length of functional remnant bowel remaining after surgical resection and the intestinal adaptive capabilities of the host. Management of patients with short-bowel syndrome requires attention to detail, individualized care and a multidisciplinary approach. Herein, we describe the clinical spectrum of short-bowel syndrome and highlight particular nutritional strategies that may help facilitate intestinal adaptation while meeting growth and nutritional needs.