Intestinal Failure and Rehabilitation: A Clinical Guide PDF

Preface

Prior to the introduction of Parenteral Nutrition by Dr. Dudrick and his colleagues at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in the 1960s, patients with short bowel syndrome and intestinal failure would often die of progressive malnutrition and its associated morbidities. The introduction of parenteral nutrition support has given the patient with short bowel syndrome the time needed to achieve maximal intestinal rehabilitation and has allowed these patients to survive until more effective treatment of intestinal failure could be developed. The pioneering work of Drs. Byrne and Wilmore in the 1990s has focused our attention on novel techniques that can be used to enhance intestinal adaptation and absorption. These techniques include modification of diet, special nutrients, oral rehydration solutions, and growth factors. Newer surgical techniques can also be applied for the prevention and treatment of intestinal failure, and the evolving success of intestinal transplantation has given hope for a "cure" of intestinal failure in selected patients. This book brings together an expert group of clinicians to help us understand current information regarding the prevention, diagnosis, care, and management of patients with intestinal failure. The editors of this book are grateful for the many contributions made by these clinicians toward more effective management of patients with intestinal failure. This book is dedicated to our patients and all those who have worked in this field since the pioneering work of Dr. Dudrick and his colleagues.