title: Low residue nutritional supplementation as an adjunct to mechanical preparation for surgical treatment of the colon.
abstract: The mechanical and nutritional efficacy of a low residue nutritionally complete liquid diet was evaluated as an adjunct for colonic preparation in patients undergoing large intestinal operations. The complete liquid diet was identical to more traditional clear liquid diets in terms of cleanliness of the intestine and general profile of bacterial flora. This complete diet was well accepted by patients and was superior in its provision of energy, protein, vitamins, minerals and nitrogen. The use of this low residue supplemental diet was associated with a statistically earlier return of intestinal function and a trend toward shorter length of hospitalization. The results of this study indicate that low residue nutritionally complete liquid diets not only offer comparable mechanical cleanliness but also outstanding nutritional advantages not obtained with traditional preparatory diets.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000601:surgery*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005526:Food, Formulated; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011300:Preoperative Care