The handling of water and electrolytes by the small bowel following the relief of intestinal obstruction

Abstract

A study has been made of the intestinal handling of water and electrolytes following the relief of smallbowel obstruction. A new technique has been described for perfusing the ileum of conscious animals. It has been shown that the ileum secretes water and electrolytes for at least 48 hours following the relief of obstruction, and that decompression increases this fluid loss during the first 6 hours after surgery. It is suggested that the fluid and electrolyte requirements during this period will be increased when decompression is performed.