Gum-chewing stimulates bowel motility after surgery for colorectal cancer

Abstract

Background/aims: During the perioperative period after open colorectal surgery, surgical stress affects changes in the autonomic nervous system of patients. The decreased intestinal motility results in many complaints for patients. To resolve this problem, the usefulness of gum-chewing for improving the motility was examined.

Methodology: Twenty-two patients with colorectal cancer were divided into two groups; gum-chewing and control groups. From after their operation, chewing gum was given to the former group three times a day.

Results: The first passage of flatus and stool in the chewing-gum group after operation were 35 and 50 hours, respectively, sooner for the controls.

Conclusions: It was concluded that gum-chewing provides a simple and effective method to improve the postoperative state of patients.