An anatomic approach to understanding mechanisms of intestinal adaptation

Following extensive intestinal small bowel resection (SBR), the remnant gut undergoes a morphometric and functional compensatory response known as adaptation.  If intestinal adaptation does not occur or is inadequate, a lifelong dependence on parenteral nutrition (PN) will ensue, ultimately resulting in severe liver failure [1]. Several broad factors including intraluminal nutrients, gastrointestinal secretions, and growth factors all play a significant roles in the adaptive response. However, the true core of understanding the mechanism of adaptation lies in its complex multi-layered cellularity and regionalization.

Source: Seminars in Pediatric Surgery - July 27, 2018 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Cathleen M. Courtney, Emily J. Onufer, Kristen M. Seiler, Brad W. Warner Source Type: research