STEP procedure
Pronunciation: step
Also written as: STEP — Serial Transverse Enteroplasty
Serial transverse enteroplasty, a surgical technique to lengthen and widen short gut in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
Serial transverse enteroplasty is an innovative surgical procedure designed to increase both the length and diameter of the small intestine in patients with short gut syndrome. The technique involves making serial transverse cuts into the bowel wall alternating from opposite sides, creating a zigzag pattern that increases surface area for absorption. STEP was developed by Dr. Heung Bae Kim in 2003 and has become an important option for managing pediatric short gut syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out the full term on first use in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient underwent STEP procedure to optimize remaining small bowel length after extensive resection." — Operative report
- "Postoperative imaging demonstrated successful bowel lengthening following the STEP procedure." — Follow-up note