Effect of Sugared Chewing Gum on Gastrointestinal Recovery After Major Colorectal Surgery

A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial of Sugared Chewing Gum on Gastrointestinal Recovery After Major Colorectal Surgery in Patients Managed With Early Enteral Feeding

The Purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of gum chewing on recovery of gastrointestinal function in patient undergoing major colorectal surgery. The investigators hypothesize that patients who chew gum after major colorectal surgery will have faster recovery of gastrointestinal function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Able to freely give written informed consent to participate in the study and have signed the Informed Consent Form
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Class I-III (Appendix III);
• Due to undergo small and/or large partial bowel resection via laparotomy or laparoscopy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Mentally incompetent or unable or unwilling to provide informed consent or comply with study procedures
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Class IV or V;
• History of abdominal carcinomatosis
• History of radiation enteritis
• Children < 18 or adults > 85 years of age