ABSTRACT
The term short bowel syndrome (SBS) is defined by most authors as a state of significant maldigestion and malabsorption requiring prolonged parenteral nutrition. SBS was defined in term neonates by Rickham in 1967, as an extensive resection of all but a maximum of 75 cm of the small gut. Malformations such as multiple intestinal atresias or gastroschisis with atresia can cause a congenital SBS in the newborn. Acquired conditions such as intestinal strangulation by midgut volvulus or necrotizing enterocolitis may require extensive intestinal resection. For patients at risk of SBS, surgery must be adapted to preserve as much small bowel as possible. General agreement exists that the therapeutic priorities in patients with SBS consist of stabilization of the patients' conditions, the evaluation of the adaptive capacities of the intestinal remnants, and the clarification of the patients' special needs. In a newborn with multiple intestinal atresias resulting in SBS, bowel that is congenitally enlarged due to chronic obstruction should be preserved.
