Review of Postoperative Ileus

Postoperative ileus (POI) is an inevitable adverse consequence of surgical procedures. In fact, prolonged POI can lead to patient discomfort, decreased mobility, delayed enteral feeding, and ultimately, prolonged hospitalizations and increased costs. It is believed that POI occurs as a result of inhibitory neural reflexes and inflammatory processes. The use of postoperative opioids also appears to contribute to ileus. Recently, the potential...