Intestinal Rehab

Services

Inpatient TPN-Weaning program

Patients
Our inpatient program is designed specifically for patients with short bowel syndrome who are dependent on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for their nutritional needs.

Evaluations
The inpatient program utilizes medical, nutritional and behavioral modification to reduce or eliminate TPN. the program teaches patients extensive information about diet and how to incorporate this new knowledge into their lifestyle once they return home.

After initial consultation the patient is admitted to the Cooperative Care Unit of the Lied Transplant Center. Comprehensive assessments are performed during the initial days of the patient's admission. Diagnostic testing is individualized and based on the patient's needs.

Throughout the patient's stay, collections of intake and output are recorded and reviewed, labs are drawn and bioelectrical impedance analysis is completed to help carefully guide the reduction of TPN, fluids and electrolytes. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized to meet their specific needs, including therapeutic, nutritional and medical regimens to improve bowel function.

Assessments of patient progress and medical status, as well as education, occur on a daily basis throughout the duration of the program. Each person is discharged with a specific plan of care, including diet and follow-up; for some, weaning may continue on an outpatient basis if it is believed further progress may be achieved.

Outpatient Program Services

Patients
The outpatient clinic located at the Lied Transplant Center offers many services to patients with diverse and challenging nutritional needs related to a variety of gastrointestinal problems. Patients seen in the outpatient clinic may suffer from short bowel syndrome, complex malabsorptive conditions, radiation enteritis, Crohn's disease, pseudo-obstruction and motility disorders.

Services
Our outpatient clinic provides consultation to primary care providers and specialist physicians who are caring for complex patients with intestinal failure. Following comprehensive multi-disciplinary examinations, a plan of care is provided for the patient and recommendations for treatment are provided to referring physicians. Our multi-disciplinary team incorporates experienced clinicians in the areas of gastroenterology, surgery, medical nutrition therapy, psychology and social work. Patients will see all necessary disciplines in one clinic visit.

Physician and Practitioner Services
Physicians with expertise in the care of patients with complex nutritional and gastrointestinal problems will examine and evaluate all patients. Nurses and nurse practitioners trained in the care of complex gastrointestinal patients, including those requiring IV or enteral support, are available to make assessments and provide suggestions for continued care of these access sites.

Nutritional Therapy
All patients will undergo a complete nutritional analysis. Our physicians and dietitians work closely to determine recommendations regarding optimal TPN management, fluid and electrolyte management and special diet designed to meet the patient's specific needs. These recommendations are provided to the patient and referring physician to help achieve desired outcomes. Goals are to increase weight, decrease stool output, improve hydrations status and improve nutrient deficiencies.

Surgical Therapy
A surgeon is available for consultation at clinic and will make recommendations specific to the individual need and clinical presentation. Surgical procedures performed at the Nebraska Medical Center include bowel lengthening, bowel tapering and reversed segment.