Intestinal failure: A new era in clinical management

Abstract

Only 50 years ago intestinal failure was considered incompatible with life. Since then, developments in parenteral nutrition, and, more recently, small intestinal transplantation, have provided new therapeutic options with the potential to offer long-term survival with a good quality of life. Current medical and surgical strategies are aimed at enhancing intestinal adaptation, improving absorption to achieve nutritional independence, and minimizing the complications of parenteral nutrition therapy. An integrated, multidisciplinary approach to the management of patients with intestinal failure, closely linked to a transplantation program to facilitate early referral, is recognized as a key factor in optimizing patient outcomes.