Segmental reversal of the distal small intestine in a short bowel syndrome model in piglets showed detrimental effect on weight gain.

BACKGROUND

To investigate the effects of a reversed segment of the distal small intestine to improve weight gain in an experimental short bowel syndrome (SBS) model in piglets.

METHODS

Twenty-four piglets underwent resection of 70% of the distal small intestine. In half of the animals a conventional anastomosis was performed, and in the other half, the distal 25 cm of the remnant jejunum was reversed before the intestinal continuity was recreated. Weight was measured daily until day 28, where the animals were euthanized. Glucagon-Like Peptide-2 (GLP-2) and Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Peptide (GIP) was measured pre- and postoperatively at day 28.

RESULTS

The group with reversal of small intestine had a significant lower weight gain at 5.26 ± 3.39 kg (mean ± SD) compared to the control group with 11.14 ± 3.83 kg (p < 0.05). In the control group greater villus height and crypt depth was found distally, and greater muscular thickness was found proximally in the intervention group. GLP-2 and GIP levels increased significantly in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of short bowel syndrome with a reversed jejunal segment of 25 cm had a detrimental effect on the weight gain.