Intestinal Rehabilitation

Intestinal failure is a disabling condition that affects quality of life and social integration. The clinical hallmarks of intestinal failure include diarrhea, fluid, and electrolyte deficiency and malnutrition. The basic goals of medical treatment are to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and nutrient balances and to make appropriate modifications in disease management to avoid side effects. The likelihood that a patient with intestinal failure will be permanently dependent on total parenteral nutrition is thought to be primarily influenced by the length, location, and health of the remaining intestine. The bowel has a remarkable ability to adapt; in many instances, this process of intestinal adaptation effectively prevents severe complications resulting from markedly decreased surface area. Current nutritional, medical, and surgical strategies for intestinal failure are discussed.