Gum Chewing: Another Simple Potential Method for More Rapid Improvement of Postoperative Gastrointestinal Function

Abstract

Background: Sham feeding has been reported to enhance bowel motility. Here, to promote gastrointestinal function after postoperative ileus, the effect of gum chewing (GC) was evaluated. Methods: Literature search including PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, SpringerLink, and secondary sources. Fixed-effect and random-effects models were used to measure the pooled estimates. The test of heterogeneity was performed with the Q statistic. Stratified and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity between studies and to assess effects of study quality. Results: GC was well tolerated in a total of 1,148 cases in this meta-analysis. The pooled weighted mean difference for time to first flatus and bowel movement in GC was found to be –9.21 (95% CI: –12.07 to –6.34; p < 0.01) and –11.42 (95% CI: –16.05 to –6.79; p < 0.01), respectively, compared to standardized postoperative care. The intervention also decreased length of hospitalization by 12.23 h (95% CI: –18.80 to –5.67; p = 0.0003). Subgroup analyses for different abdominal procedures all favored GC. Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrated that GC was safe and easily tolerated without any complications following abdominal surgery to potentially shorten postoperative ileus.