Short Bowel Syndrome

Overview

Many patients diagnosed with short bowel syndrome seek care at Mayo Clinic because of Mayo's high level of expertise in treating this disorder. The care team at Mayo works to achieve optimal formulations of medications and nutritional treatments to correct the effects caused by loss of most of the small intestine. For some patients this means intravenous nutrition, while others may require diet adjustments and oral supplements. Patients are carefully trained during their treatment at Mayo Clinic and then closely managed when they return home.

Mayo Clinic is one of the world's leading digestive diseases treatment and research centers. Mayo Clinic in Minnesota ranked No. 1 in Digestive Disorders by U.S. News and World Report.

Diagnosis

Patients undergo a set of laboratory, X-ray and endoscopic exams. The results from these exams help specialists develop specialized treatment plans for each patient. Tests results generally are available in Mayo's state-of-the-art electronic medical record within 24 hours of testing. Learn more about short bowel syndrome diagnosis.

Treatment Options

Experienced teams of Mayo Clinic care providers help patients who have short bowel syndrome to achieve the maximum quality of life. Gastroenterologists, dietitians and other specialists work with each patient on a continuing basis. Learn more about short bowel syndrome treatment options.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Short Bowel Syndrome

Short bowel syndrome is a condition where the small intestine is unable to absorb the necessary vitamins and nutrients necessary for healthy living. The condition may develop as a result of Crohn's disease or other conditions that require surgical removal of much of the small intestine. A patient is generally considered to have short bowel syndrome when less than 100 to 150 centimeters, three to five feet, of functioning small bowel remains (about 20 percent of normal).