Treatment of High Output Enterocutaneous Fistula. Should we be different?

Abstract

Treatment of high output ECF is a challenging to the surgeon, especially in developing countries like India where the available resources and financial support to the patients are limited. The morbidity and mortality of these patients depend on nutrition. Providing nutrition by prolonged use of TPN is not feasible in all patients. Hence percutaneous T-tube placement is a simple technique which can be used to provide enteral nutrition. Apart from providing nutrition it has an added advantage of providing a mechanical support over the anastomotic site and it also help in decompressing the proximal bowel segment which help in healing process of the fistula.