Opinions of South African dietitians on fistuloclysis as a treatment option for intestinal failure patients

Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
MedPharm Publications
Abstract
Introduction: Intestinal failure is the consequence of diverse aetiologies and pathophysiological causes. Fistuloclysis is an effective means of nutritional support to selected intestinal failure patients. This study aimed to investigate the management of adult intestinal failure patients in hospitals in South Africa, determining how practical and acceptable fistuloclysis is. Methods: The current management of type 2 and type 3 intestinal failure patients in South African hospitals was investigated by means of occupation-specific questionnaires, evaluating perceptions and opinions among dietitians. Results: Twenty-seven dietitians indicated willingness to participate in the survey, the majority (67%) having been involved with patient management in this field for one to five years. All indicated correctly that high fistula outputs would be defined as intestinal failure. Only 47% gave the correct definition of fistuloclysis, while 28% were currently utilising it as a means of nutrition support. All respondents agreed that unsuccessful implementation of fistuloclysis was due to training shortfalls and resistance from clinicians and nursing staff. Conclusion: There is a positive perception and awareness of fistuloclysis; however, numerous stumbling blocks hamper the wider use of this novel treatment.
Description
CITATION: Du Toit, A. L., Boutall, A. B. T. & Blaauw, R. 2018. Opinions of South African dietitians on fistuloclysis as a treatment option for intestinal failure patients. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 31(2):29–34, doi:10.1080/16070658.2017.1345430.
The original publication is available at http://www.sajcn.co.za
Keywords
Fistuloclysis, Intestinal failure patients -- Treatment, Parenteral feeding, Fistula, Intestinal
Citation
Du Toit, A. L., Boutall, A. B. T. & Blaauw, R. 2018. Opinions of South African dietitians on fistuloclysis as a treatment option for intestinal failure patients. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 31(2):29–34, doi:10.1080/16070658.2017.1345430