Usefulness of Gum Chewing to Decrease Postoperative Ileus in Colorectal Surgery with Primary Anastomosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The use of chewing gum after colorectal surgery was associated with less postoperative ileus and vomiting, and with an increased passage of flatus within the first 48 hours after surgery. Since gum chewing is an inexpensive procedure and is not associated with higher morbidity, it can be safely used for a faster postoperative recovery in elective colorectal surgery.