Management and complications of short bowel syndrome in the context of pathophysiological changes
Authors:
Z. Uhríková 1; D. Murgaš 2; M. Zibolen 1
Authors‘ workplace:
Neonatologická klinika, Jesseniova lekárska fakulta UK v Martine, Univerzitná nemocnica Martin
1; Klinika detskej chirurgie, Jesseniova lekárska fakulta UK v Martine, Univerzitná nemocnica Martin
2
Published in:
Čes-slov Neonat 2026; 32 (1): 44-49.
Category:
Original Paper
Overview
Short bowel syndrome is a serious malabsorption condition caused by intestinal resection, resulting in deficiencies of nutrients, fluids, and electrolytes, and increasing the risk of complications. In newborns, it is most commonly caused by necrotizing enterocolitis, meconium ileus, gastroschisis, intestinal atresia, or volvulus. Prognosis depends on the remaining length of the small intestine, the presence of the ileocecal valve, and the colon. Treatment includes a combination of enteral and parenteral nutrition, supplementation of fluids, minerals, and vitamins, pharmacological support, and monitoring for complications such as SIBO or cholestasis. Preserving at least 35 cm of small intestine with the ileocecal valve and colon improves prognosis. Ideally, most patients gradually become independent of parenteral nutrition within 24 months after resection.
Keywords:
parenteral nutrition – short bowel syndrome – small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Sources
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Neonatology Neonatal NurseArticle was published in
Czech and Slovak Neonatology
2026 Issue 1
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