Overview
Introduction
After a major small bowel resection, the remaining intestine may be unable to maintain hydration, electrolyte balance, and nutrition.
After a major small-bowel resection, the remaining intestine may be unable to maintain hydration, electrolyte balance, and nutrition. This acquired intestinal failure is short bowel syndrome (SBS). Reduced absorptive area is only part of the problem: rapid transit and loss of specialised ileal absorption can amplify fluid and nutrient losses, while a preserved colon may provide partial compensation. Persistent watery stool, falling weight, orthostatic symptoms, abnormal electrolytes, or ongoing parenteral support should shift attention from routine postoperative diarrhea to SBS-related malabsorption. Care therefore centres on measuring losses, replacing what is lost, supporting intestinal adaptation, and detecting complications early.