Title: Early use of Low Residue diet is Superior to Clear Liquid Diet after Elective Colorectal Surgery – A Comparative Study

Authors: Saxena A, Saurabh KS

 DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i5.05

Abstract

Background: At the time of discharge, acceptability of oral feeds is one of the major criteria, so initiating early feeds gives patient the advantage of early feed acceptability and shorter hospital stay.

Objective: To assess the effect of early clear liquid diet vs. early low residue diet in terms of feasibility and outcome in patients with colorectal anastomosis and to study the outcome of early initiation of low residue diet on acceptability, complications and length of hospital stay.

Methods: It was a comparative, non-randomized study done. Total 30 patients undergoing colorectal anastomosis, for various indications were allotted into two groups. One group was given clear liquid as initial feed and the other group was given Low residue diet. Patients were studied for post-operative vomiting, abdominal distension, NG tube decompression required post-operatively, number of days on intravenous anti emetics, anastomotic leak and wound dehiscence.

Results: Early initiation of feeding in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery resulted in early return of bowel functions, early feed acceptability and shorter hospital stay.

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Corresponding Author

Saxena A

Department of Surgery, NSCB Medical College and Hospital, Jablapur, India