Intestinal Rehabilitation

The Intestinal Rehabilitation and Transplantation Program at UCSF Medical Center treats children and adults with intestinal failure. People with intestinal failure may receive all or some of their nutrients from total parenteral nutrition (TPN), a process of providing liquid nutrition through a catheter placed in a vein. Long-term use of TPN can cause life-threatening complications. Our program helps patients minimize the need for TPN and ultimately transition to eating food.

Successful intestinal rehabilitation is achieved through individualized care that includes the expertise of doctors, dietitians, nurses, social workers and pharmacists. Patients may be candidates for dietary and medical treatments, or surgical treatments such as bowel lengthening procedures.

Many but not all patients can be weaned from TPN. Studies have shown that 65 percent of patients with intestinal failure can be weaned from TPN. Another 25 percent of patients can significantly decrease the time on TPN each week. When total weaning is not possible, we help patients manage TPN and avoid complications.

Our experts consult with other doctors regarding how to best manage patients with intestinal failure. In addition, we treat patients with digestive disorders who cannot tolerate a normal oral diet.

For a few patients with intestinal failure who cannot be weaned from TPN and who have life-threatening complications, intestinal transplant is an option.

For help finding a doctor, please contact our Physician Referral Service:

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated February 14, 2008