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Chewing Gum on Postoperative Ileus in Children

Flatus | Bowel Ileus

Traditional postoperative care has been challenged recently to improve and speedup recovery (including the return of bowel function) such that patients can be discharged to home more quickly. This approach includes earlier mobilization of the patient, and introducing solid food sooner. Additionally, there is evidence in adults to suggest that "sham feeding" by chewing gum may also speed up bowel recovery so the patient may tolerate a solid diet earlier.

The aim of this study is to determine if gum chewing can enhance bowel recovery in children who undergo abdominal surgery.

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Participation Requirements

  • Sex:

    ALL

  • Eligible Ages:

    4 to 17

Participation Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Children more than or equal to 4 years of age
* Children who undergo abdominal surgery (both laparoscopic or open)
* Children who have an expected postoperative length of stay more than 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

* Children who are less than 4 years of age
* Children who are unable to chew gum/swallow (e.g. intubated, decreased level of consciousness, cognitive or physical disability)
* Children or their parents are not willing to sign consent
* Children or their parents are unable to follow directions regarding gum chewing,
* Children who have a GI dysmotility disorder (e.g. chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction)

Study Location

Children's Hospital of Winnipeg/Manitoba
Children's Hospital of Winnipeg/Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada

Contact Study Team

Primary Contact

Anna Shawyer, MD, MSc

[email protected]
204-787-2394
Study Sponsored By
University of Manitoba
Participants Required
More Information
Study ID: NCT03666377