bowel lengthening
Surgical techniques used to increase functional intestinal length in patients with short bowel syndrome.
Full Definition
A category of surgical procedures designed to maximize the functional length of the small intestine in patients with short bowel syndrome. These techniques include serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP), longitudinal intestinal lengthening and tailoring (LILT), and spiral intestinal lengthening and tailoring (SILT). The goal is to increase absorptive surface area and reduce dependence on parenteral nutrition. These procedures are particularly important in pediatric patients who may benefit from intestinal adaptation and growth. Success depends on adequate remaining bowel length, preserved blood supply, and absence of severe motility disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Umbrella term for various specific surgical techniques.
In Context
- "The multidisciplinary team recommended bowel lengthening to optimize the patient's remaining intestinal function." — Treatment planning meeting
- "Several bowel lengthening techniques are available, with STEP being the most commonly performed procedure." — Surgical review article