Standardised documentation and synoptic reporting of complex intestinal anatomy in enteric fistulation and intestinal failure.

AIM In intestinal failure, delineation of both structure and function are key to both controlling symptoms and planning further intervention. We have developed a template for developing an "anatomy at a glance" patient-specific map to aid decision making and counselling. METHOD A core data set was developed and used to create an editable template to demonstrate the gastrointestinal tract, its relationship to the genitourinary tract, and specific anterior abdominal wall features. This was then used to create an anatomical template, specific to each patient, and stored in the electronic patient record and imaging archive. RESULTS We have developed a technique for integration of multi-modal information into one diagram, easily referenced by the multidisciplinary team. Radiology, endoscopy and previous operation notes can be used to fill out a core data set, which is then transposed into a standardised template. A worked example is shown in the main article. CONCLUSION The mapping template has been successfully integrated into practice, and aided decision making at all stages of the patient's therapeutic journey. It has been found helpful in planning routes of nutrition, pre-operative optimisation, surgical planning, interpreting post-operative imaging and managing patient expectations.