Long-term Survival with Six Inches of Small Intestine

Abstract

The clinical course of a girl who had all but approximately 6 in. (15 cm.) of her small intestine resected at the age of 14i years has been described. She has now survived for over seven years and is in a state of good health and adequate nutrition. She is able to earn her own living and enjoy a reasonable social life. Prompt and careful attention to long-term electrolyte losses, especially of potassium, magnesium, and calcium, and the administration of vitamin B12, seem the most important features of management. Dietary manipulation or additives were ineffective and difficult to maintain during a long period. I am grateful to Dr. Ian Wood, and to Mr. Bruce Hallowes, the surgeon who successfully resected the bowel, for referring this case to me for long-term management. Many other people have helped in her management over the years, particularly the clinical research ward registrars who inherited her care from each other. © 1965, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.