STEP Procedure
Also written as: STEP — Serial Transverse Enteroplasty Procedure
Serial Transverse Enteroplasty Procedure; a surgical technique to lengthen dilated small bowel by creating alternating transverse staple lines.
Full Definition
The Serial Transverse Enteroplasty Procedure (STEP) is an innovative surgical technique for intestinal lengthening in patients with short gut syndrome and dilated small bowel. The procedure involves placing alternating transverse staple lines from opposite sides of the bowel, creating a zigzag pattern that effectively doubles the intestinal length while reducing the diameter. This improves transit time and absorptive capacity. The procedure can be repeated if the bowel redilates. Contraindications include bowel diameter less than 3-4 cm and severe intestinal dysmotility.
Usage
Usage note: Always include minimum bowel diameter requirements when discussing candidacy.
In Context
- "The patient's bowel diameter of 5 cm made him an ideal candidate for STEP procedure." — Preoperative assessment
- "Repeat STEP procedure was performed two years after the initial lengthening surgery." — Operative report