The use of alvimopan for postoperative ileus in small and large bowel resections

Abstract

Transient ileus is a normal physiologic process after surgery. When prolonged, it is an important contributor to postoperative complications, increased length of stay and increased healthcare costs. Efforts have been made to prevent and manage postoperative ileus; alvimopan is an oral, peripheral μ-opioid receptor antagonist, and the only currently US FDA-approved medication to accelerate the return of gastrointestinal function postoperatively.

Keywords: alvimopan; bowel resection; laparoscopy; postoperative ileus; μ-opioid antagonist.