Short Bowel Syndrome

Diagnosis

To diagnose short bowel syndrome, a healthcare professional may recommend blood or stool tests to measure nutrient levels. Imaging procedures may also be used to evaluate the intestines and detect blockages or changes. These tests can include:

• X-ray with contrast material (barium X-ray)

• CT scan

• MRI

• CT or MRI enterography

Treatment

Treatment for short bowel syndrome depends on which parts of the small intestine are affected, whether the colon is intact, and individual preferences. Treatment options may include:

• Nutritional therapy
  People with short bowel syndrome may need a special diet and nutritional supplements. Some may require parenteral nutrition (through a vein) or enteral nutrition (through a feeding tube) to prevent malnutrition.

• Medicines
  Medications may help control stomach acid, reduce diarrhea, or improve intestinal absorption after surgery.

• Surgery
  Surgical options include procedures to slow nutrient passage through the intestine, lengthen the intestine through autologous gastrointestinal reconstruction, or, in some cases, small bowel transplantation.