The potential benefits and harms of early feeding post-surgery: a literature review

Abstract

The effect of nutrition on wound healing is widely recognized, with many studies highlighting the detrimental effect poor nutrition can have on wound healing. In addition, fasting pre-, peri- and postoperatively can contribute to further protein catabolism, leading to morbidity and mortality. By reviewing the current literature, this work evaluates the potential benefits and harms from early feeding (EF) during the early stages postsurgery. Current randomised control trials suggest that the early introduction of nutrients post-surgery may be beneficial for wound healing and recovery from surgery. Additionally, this approach does not seem to impose any increased complications post-operatively. Conversely, although there is ongoing research supporting EF and evidence showing that malnutrition can delay wound healing and recovery, healthcare professionals remain sceptical with a slow uptake in adopting EF protocols.

Keywords: Early feeding; Enteral nutrition; Parenteral nutrition; Wound healing.