Semi-elemental Versus Polymeric EEN in the Preoperative Optimization for Patients with CD

Growing evidence has shown that exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) plays an important role in the preoperative optimization for patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, the efficacy and safety of different types of enteral feeds including semi-elemental and polymeric enteral nutrition on CD have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to compare the role of semi-elemental and polymeric enteral nutrition on CD. The primary outcome: the reduction rate of CRP/ALB after exclusive enteral nutrition in Crohn's disease. The other outcomes: (1) the changes in Crohn's disease activity index; (2) the tolerance of enteral nutrition; (3) the changes in body mass index; (4) postoperative complications and the incidence of stoma; (5) the rate of surgery; (6) other adverse reactions.

Inclusion criteria

• elective bowel resection for Crohn's disease;
• preoperative diagnosis of Crohn's disease;
• age between 18 to 65 years old;
• malnutrition;
• the Crohn's disease activity index over 150;
• nasal feeding.

Exclusion criteria

• emergency surgery;
• preoperative exclusive enteral nutrition before three months;
• can not tolerate enteral nutrition;
• less than 6 weeks of exclusive enteral nutrition;
• preoperative corticosteroids within 3 months;
• history of gastrointestinal surgery;
• isolated colon disease;
• metabolic disease (diabetes, hyperthyroidism).