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Cancer research

Advances in Malnutrition Treatment Highlighted in New Study

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Malnutrition remains a significant concern for critically ill patients, especially those undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Researchers at University Gadjah Mada in Yogyakarta, Indonesia have highlighted the importance of adequate nutritional therapy in preventing malnutrition in such cases. A recent study published in Jurnal Anestesiologi Indonesia, the official journal of the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, University Gadjah Mada, emphasizes the need for early and effective nutritional support to avoid malnutrition.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Hartmann procedure, a surgical procedure for treating colorectal cancer, is associated with a high risk of malnutrition in patients.
  • Critical illness post-gastrointestinal surgery due to cancer increases the risk of malnutrition beyond 48 hours.
  • Parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter is often required in such cases due to gastrointestinal bleeding or inability to provide oral and enteral nutrition.
  • The study emphasizes the importance of nutritional therapy as part of the management of critically ill patients, particularly in preventing malnutrition.
  • Adequate nutritional support should be given at the right time, in the most effective way, and in appropriate doses for each individual.
  • The research highlights the need for careful nutritional planning and monitoring to prevent malnutrition in critically ill patients.

Statistics:

  • The study reports a case of a 51-year-old male patient who underwent a post-operative Hartmann's procedure for indications of high obstructive ileus due to rectosigmoid tumor, septic shock, acute kidney injury (AKI), and peptic ulcer.
  • The patient received antibiotic therapy (Meropenem and Metronidazole), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter during treatment in the intensive care unit.
  • The study concludes that nutritional therapy is crucial in preventing malnutrition among critically ill patients.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. (2025, August 19). New Findings from University Gadjah Mada Describe Advances in Malnutrition (Nutrition Therapy in Post-Hartmann's Procedure Patients in The Intensive Care Unit). World Disease Weekly. p 46.
  • Isnafianing Palupi, et al. (2025). Nutrition Therapy in Post-Hartmann's Procedure Patients in The Intensive Care Unit. Jurnal Anestesiologi Indonesia, 17(2), 129-139.

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