ABSTRACT
The main goal of therapy for intestinal failure (IF) is to facilitate bowel adaptation and enteral autonomy. To accomplish this goal, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary management program is required to provide frequent monitoring, early identi—cation and treatment of complications and efforts to help establish normal growth and development. Continual parent/patient education and support is also an important part of the treatment. Patients with IF encounter multiple acute and chronic problems including nutrient loss, diarrhea, and «uid and electrolyte abnormalities. Ideally, the multidisciplinary management team should include a gastroenterologist, a surgeon, a nurse practitioner/coordinator, a dietitian, a pharmacist as well as social and psychological support. To determine the most appropriate therapy, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary. This chapter will review the medical and enteral nutritional management of patients who have acquired IF as a result of short bowel syndrome (SBS).
