Short-gut syndrome: a new surgical technique and ultrastructural study of the liver and pancreas

M. D. Diego, E. de Miguel, C. M. Lucea, G. M. Salgado, J. L. Martinez and H. G. Garrido

Massive (85%) resection of the small bowel was performed in 24 dogs to study a new surgical technique. In 12 dogs, two valves were created in the remaining small bowel at the same time, one proximal and the other distal to the anastomosis; the other 12 dogs constituted the control group. Biochemical tests, clinical evolution, and the weight curves show satisfactory results, with high survival, high lipid absorption, and low impairment of the overall condition. The valves can be created at the same time as the resection without any increase in the surgical risk. This new technique shows some possible advantages, and should be used in combination with total parenteral nutrition during the early stages and with basic diets thereafter. Ultrastructural alterations in the liver and pancreas have been studied in both groups.