Short bowel syndrome in the NICU

Clin Perinatol. 2013 Mar;40(1):53-68. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2012.12.003. Epub 2013 Jan 17.

Abstract

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is the most common cause of intestinal failure in infants. In neonates and young infants, necrotizing enterocolitis, gastroschisis, intestinal atresia, and intestinal malrotation/volvulus are the leading causes of SBS. Following an acute postsurgical phase, the residual gastrointestinal tract adapts with reorganization of the crypt-villus histoarchitecture and functional changes in nutrient absorption and motility. A cohesive, multidisciplinary approach can allow most neonates with SBS to transition to full enteral feeds and achieve normal growth and development. In this article, the clinical features, management, complications, and prognostic factors in SBS are reviewed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Enteral Nutrition / methods*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / etiology
  • Infant, Premature, Diseases / therapy*
  • Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
  • Intestine, Small / physiopathology*
  • Intestine, Small / surgery
  • Parenteral Nutrition / methods*
  • Short Bowel Syndrome / etiology
  • Short Bowel Syndrome / therapy*