Colonic infusion in the management of the short bowel syndrome.

Two cases are presented of short bowel syndrome. Both had had the colon or part of the colon bypassed as part of prior surgical management in addition to having had extensive resection of the small bowel. Despite various medical regimens, both patients remained in negative fluid and electrolyte balance thus requiring intravenous fluid supplementation. In an effort to maintain positive fluid balance without intravenous therapy, colonic infusion of fluids was initiated. This modification of management proved effective in maintenance of adequate plasma volume and normal renal function. It is concluded that this type of therapy can be of great benefit in the management of patients with the short bowel syndrome.