Since SBS is a condition for which there is no cure,
the goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms through medications and
therapies to correct nutritional deficiencies, control inflammation and
relieve pain. Frequently used medications include anti-inflammatories,
immunosuppressants, antibiotics,
corticosteroids and antidiarrheals.
Recently a recombitant human growth hormone, somatropin, was approved
by the food and drug administration for use in patients with short bowel
syndrome in combination with a specialized diet. Vitamins, nutritional
supplements, and dietary restrictions are also used in treating SBS. The
vitamin and mineral supplements may have to be several times greater than
the standard recommended daily allowances in order to maintain adequate
tissue and functioning. In addition, a high calorie and low residue diet
that also supplies these vitamins, minerals and nutrients is necessary.
Such dietary management may relieve the symptoms associated with severe
malnourishment and maximize nutrient absorption. Often, the food is divided
into several small meals of protein and complex carbohydrates and a minimum
of concentrated sweets, such as fruit juices.
Intravenous feeding in the form of TPN is often required
immediately after surgery to provide the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals
required by the body. Complications of this type of feeding are usually
related to electrolyte imbalance, infection,
and placement of the tube. SBS patients may be slowly weaned from TPN
while oral feedings are started using a basic diet, which can be digested
without much work required in the bowel. The complexity of the diet is
gradually increased over time, allowing the remaining digestive system
to adapt. Finally, patients are weaned entirely off the intravenous feeding
and receive nutrition completely from oral intake of regular foods. At
this stage, complications may occur, requiring close management by medical
professionals.
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
