NEC/Short Bowel (due to surgeries)

  : Dear Songia,
  : Congratulations on the birth of your baby boy. You have all been through a rough time but once you get adjusted to him and his needs I hope that you will be able to enjoy years of joy. Nectrotizing enterocolitis is a condition seen in premature infants that often requires multiple intestinal surgeries resulting in the short bowel syndrome. If your son had more than half of his intestines removed, it is likely that he will require long term total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to be able to meet his nutritional needs. Long term TPN is associated with complications including catheter related complications, metabolic complications and the development of chronic liver disease. If more than 60% of his intestine remains, especially if the duodenum and part of the colon is still present, it is possible that with time (probably years) the remaining intestine will adapt and he will be able to meet his caloric needs with oral and enteral nutrition. Some centers are now performing small bowel transplantation in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis and the short bowel syndrome.  The long-term results of this surgery are better than they were years ago, but I think at this point, long term TPN still affords a better survival. This may change in the future with improved surgical techniques, better immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection and improved methods to prevent opportunistic infections. You may also want to post your communication in the Maternal & Child Forum to see if there are other mothers in your situation. Good luck to you.
  : This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
  : HFHSM.D.-ym:

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