Abstract
Introduction: Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) is characterized by a state of malabsorption resulting from the anatomical or functional loss of the small intestine (SI). This condition can arise after surgical resection, the causes of which range from congenital defects to acquired diseases, often accompanied by various complications. Nutritional therapy (NT) plays a crucial role in the management of SBS, with the main objective of optimizing the absorption process, alleviating symptoms, and maintaining or recovering the patient's nutritional status. Initially, NT is implemented through parental nutrition (PN), but in the long term, the focus is on enabling individuals to meet their nutritional needs through enteral nutrition (EN) and oral feeding. In more severe cases, however, dependence on NP may be unavoidable. Objective: Incorporating data from a comprehensive literature review of national and international journals, this study aimed to provide a robust analysis to inform a narrative review of the effectiveness of PN. Methods: This review sought to consolidate best practices in the use of parenteral nutrition, supported by a solid base of scientific evidence, both from national and international literature. With this, we intend to offer a more in-depth and detailed understanding of its effectiveness, clinical benefits, challenges, and applications in different therapeutic contexts, providing support to optimize its implementation in the care of critically ill patients. Results: Based on the literature review, it was possible to evaluate the effectiveness of PN in the initial management of SBS, as well as transition strategies to enteral nutrition EN and long-term oral feeding, in addition to exploring the circumstances in which SBS Dependence on NP becomes inevitable, especially in more severe cases of the condition. NT plays a fundamental role in the management of SBS, being crucial to optimize nutrient absorption, alleviate symptoms, and preserve or restore the patient's nutritional status. Conclusion: It can be seen that PN is essential at the beginning of treatment, ensuring nutritional replacement while the intestine cannot absorb it adequately. In the long term, the objective is to transition to EN and, when possible, oral feeding, in order to promote greater autonomy and quality of life for the patient. However, in severe or complicated cases, prolonged dependence on PN may be necessary, which requires ongoing monitoring and specialized management strategies.