The international surgical journal with global reach

This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS

Early enteral feeding versus ‘nil by mouth’ after gastrointestinal surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. BMJ 2001; 323: 773-6.

Published: 1st January 2001

Authors: Lewis SJ, Egger M, Sylvester PA, Thomas S.

Conclusion

Eleven studies including 837 patients were analyzed. Early enteral nutrition significantly reduced postoperative infection (relative risk 0.72) and duration of hospital stay. There were non-significant reductions in other complications and mortality

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