Menthol Chewing Gum After Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery

The Effect of Menthol Chewing Gum on Nausea and Vomiting, Bowel Function, and Recovery After Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of menthol chewing gum on postoperative nausea and vomiting, bowel function, and recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. A total of 50 patients were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=25) or a control group (n=25). Participants in the intervention group received menthol chewing gum in addition to standard postoperative care, while participants in the control group received standard postoperative care only. Nausea, bowel function, and postoperative recovery were assessed during the first three postoperative days.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting and delayed return of bowel function are common concerns following laparoscopic colorectal surgery and may affect postoperative recovery. Chewing gum is a non-pharmacological intervention that may stimulate gastrointestinal activity.

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of menthol chewing gum on postoperative nausea and vomiting, bowel function, and recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Participants were randomly allocated to an intervention group or a control group.

Both groups received routine postoperative treatment and nursing care. In the intervention group, participants chewed menthol gum for 30 minutes and repeated the intervention three hours later. The same procedure was applied on the first, second, and third postoperative days. Participants in the control group received routine postoperative treatment and care without menthol chewing gum.

Postoperative nausea, bowel function, and recovery status were evaluated during the first three postoperative days. Postoperative recovery was assessed using the Surgical Recovery Status Scale, and nausea intensity was assessed using a Visual Analog Scale.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18-60 years
• Willing to participate in the study
• At least literate
• Able to communicate without cognitive, sensory, or verbal impairment
• No diagnosed psychiatric disorder
• No vertigo
• Undergoing elective surgery
• Not using sedative, anxiolytic, or similar medications
• Able to speak Turkish
• Able to chew gum
• No allergy to menthol or mint
• No history of jaw or oral surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• Absence of teeth
• Unwilling to chew gum