Original articleEarly feeding after loop ileostomy reversal: A prospective study

Background/IntroductionDefunctioning loop ileostomy is an essential procedure in gastrointestinal surgery; however, loop ileostomy reversal (LIR) presents specific complications. Studies have indicated that starting enteral feeding early following stoma closure facilitates the reduction of associated morbidity as well as the psychological and economic burden on patients.PurposeTo prospectively examine the safety, tolerability, and outcome of early enteral feeding following LIR.MethodsThe study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital over 24 months. A total of 128 patients undergoing LIR were randomly assigned to an early enteral feeding group (Group A) and a conventional feeding group (Group B). Pre-, intra-, and postoperative variables were noted.ResultsSignificant differences were observed in the postoperative resolution of ileus and the duration of hospital stay between the groups (p < 0.05).ConclusionEarly enteral feeding after LIR is safe and sufficiently tolerated. Furthermore, it leads to the early return of bowel functions and thus shortens hospital stay.