Acidophilus: A Potential Solution for Partial Small-Bowel Obstruction

Recent research conducted at the National Taiwan University Hospital and the National Taiwan University College of Medicine in Taipei has shed light on a promising treatment approach for patients suffering from partial adhesive small-bowel obstruction. The study suggests that a combination of laxatives, acidophilus, and simethicone, administered orally, may offer significant improvements for patients in this condition.

 

The Challenge of Partial Bowel Obstruction

Patients diagnosed with partial adhesive small-bowel obstruction typically receive conservative management, which involves intravenous hydration while refraining from oral intake. However, this conventional approach has been associated with prolonged hospital stays and an increased risk of delayed surgery, as highlighted by Dr. Shyr-Chyr Chen and colleagues.

A Novel Approach

The study enrolled 128 patients who met the inclusion criteria out of 144 consecutive cases of adhesive partial small-bowel obstruction. These patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group.

Intervention Group: Patients in this group received IV hydration, nasogastric (NG)-tube decompression, and oral therapy consisting of magnesium oxide, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and simethicone.

Control Group: Patients in this group received IV hydration, NG-tube decompression, and were not allowed any oral intake.

The majority of the patients included in the study were men, with an average age of approximately 54 years in both groups. Notably, the intervention group demonstrated a higher rate of successful treatment without surgery (91%) compared to the control group (76%).

 

Promising Outcomes

The findings suggest that the oral therapy comprising magnesium oxide, L. acidophilus, and simethicone played a significant role in expediting the resolution of conservatively treated partial adhesive small-bowel obstruction. This treatment approach also led to shorter hospital stays for patients.

 

Future Prospects

While this study presents promising results, the authors emphasize the need for further trials involving larger patient samples to solidify the value of oral therapy for partial adhesive small-bowel obstructions.

In the quest to improve patient outcomes, it is imperative to explore innovative approaches like this one. By harnessing the potential of acidophilus and other therapeutic elements, medical professionals aim to enhance the management of conditions like partial small-bowel obstruction, offering patients a more efficient path to recovery.