Effects of nutritional support on the hypermetabolism of patients with digestive tract fistula / 中华胃肠外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Digestive tract fistulas are abnormal connections between gastrointestinal tract and other organs that most commonly occur after surgery. Morbidity and mortality associated with postoperative fistulas are substantial as they are highly associated with nutritional deficits, hypermetabolism, septic complications and concomitant diseases that may appear during prolonged hospital stay. Digestive tract fistula is a challenging condition that involves a multidisciplinary approach to management. The main treatment includes intestinal rest,correction of electrolytic disturbances, parenteral nutrition,protection of the skin surrounding the fistula, and treatment and prophylaxis of any related local or systemic septic complications. Nutritional support, which is an effective and promising treatment for patients with digestive tract fistulas, can promote the closure of the fistula and decrease the duration of hospital stay.