Gastrografin in Postoperative Ileus
Gastrografin in Postoperative Ileus
After abdominal surgery there is a period of unavoidable dysfunction of the gut. During this
 time patients are often unable to eat and drink, and do not pass any flatus or stool. Though
 this resolves within a few days for most, there are a significant number (around 30%) who go
 on to have a prolonged period of this dysfunction known clinically as postoperative ileus. It
 has been clearly shown that this group of patients have worse health outcomes and spend a
 longer time in hospital.

 The aim of this study is to trial a drug - gastrografin - in the management of prolonged
 postoperative ileus. Gastrografin is safe, economical, readily available, and has been used
 with great success in the similar condition of bowel obstruction. It is predicted that
 gastrografin will shorten the duration of a prolonged postoperative ileus, thus affording
 affected patients a better outcome from surgery.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Age > 18 years.

 -  Current inpatient following elective laparoscopic or open surgery.

 -  Classified as having prolonged postoperative ileus.

 -  Able to understand risks/benefits of the study.

 -  Able to give informed consent.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Pregnancy.

 -  ASA of 4 or greater.

 -  Previous allergic reaction to gastrografin or iodinated contrast agents.

 -  Manifest hyperthyroidism.