DR. PRASNA S,DR. P.B. TARUN TEJA,DR. DIVYA VASIREDDY,DR. CHANDRALEKHA PAKALAPATI
DOI: https://doi.org/Background: While early enteral feeding (EEF) within 24–48 hours post-gastrointestinal (GI) anastomosis is increasingly endorsed, concerns about safety persist.
Objective: To compare outcomes between early (≤ 48 h) and delayed (> 72 h) enteral nutrition in adult GI anastomosis patients.
Methods: Prospective observational study of 200 adult patients undergoing GI anastomoses. Patients were assigned to early or delayed feeding groups based on postoperative protocol. Primary outcomes: postoperative ileus duration, length of hospital stay (LOS), surgical site infection (SSI), anastomotic leak rate. Statistical analysis included chi-square and t-tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: (Hypothetical—consistent with literature) EEF group showed significantly shorter ileus (mean 4 vs. 6 days), reduced LOS (mean 7 vs. 12 days), lower SSI (10% vs. 25%), and no increase in leak rates.
Conclusion: Early enteral nutrition after GI anastomosis appears safe and beneficial, supporting enhanced recovery protocols, particularly when meticulous surgical technique is used.
