A STUDY ON EARLY ORAL FEEDING AFTER GASTROINTESTINAL SURGERY: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Author : Dhananjay Talaviya

Abstract :Background: Early postoperative feeding after gastrointestinal surgery has been a subject of debate. This randomized controlled trial evaluates the safety and efficacy of early feeding compared to conventional feeding. Methods: Ninety patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery were randomized into two groups: Group A (Early Feeding) and Group B (Conventional Feeding). Outcomes measured included time to bowel movement, incidence of ileus, anastomotic leak, wound infection, hospital stay, and patient satisfaction. Results: Patients in Group A had a significantly earlier return of bowel function (1.7 ± 0.4 days vs 3.2 ± 0.6 days, p<0.05), shorter hospital stay (4.5 ± 1.2 vs 6.1 ± 1.5 days, p<0.05), and higher patient satisfaction (92% vs 74%, p<0.05). There was no significant difference in rates of ileus, anastomotic leak, or wound infection between the groups. Conclusion: Early feeding after gastrointestinal surgery is safe, feasible, and associated with faster recovery and improved patient satisfaction.

Keywords :Early feeding, gastrointestinal surgery, randomized controlled trial, postoperative recovery, enhanced recovery.

Conference Name :International Conference on Surgery and Surgical Nursing (ICSSN-25)

Conference Place Patiala, India

Conference Date 5th Oct 2025