Factors Affecting Early Postoperative Feeding Following Elective Open Colon Resection

Abstract

THE TRADITIONAL approach to start postoperative feeding following elective colon resection has been to await the resolution of postoperative adynamic ileus, as indicated by the presence of bowel sounds and the passage of flatus and/or bowel movement. However, recent clinical trials of patients undergoing laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted colectomy, with feeding initiated by protocol rather than by objective signs of return of bowel function, resulted in earlier feeding and shortened hospital stay.^1-3 These advantages initially were believed to be unique to laparoscopic colectomy, owing to smaller incisions and less manipulation of the gastrointestinal tract.