The Effects of Combined Gum-chewing and Parenteral Metoclopramide on Post-operative Ileus

A delay in the return of bowel function is a common occurrence after abdominal surgeries.1 The goal of this study was to test the effect of the combined use of chewing a gum and administering metoclopramide intravenously on the duration of this natural delay in the return of bowel function after abdominal surgeries. Patients were grouped into four: the first group received both gum and metoclopramide; the second group received only gum; the third group received only metoclopramide, while the fourth group (the control group) received sterile water for injection. The groups were compared for the time taken for bowel function to return and the duration of hospital stay.

Inclusion Criteria:All patients requiring elective abdominal surgery aged 16-65yearsExclusion Criteria:Abdominal emergency surgeriesStructural or functional inability to chew gum