Chyme reinfusion for entero-atmospheric fistula: challenges, lessons, and outcomes of a national experience

Background: Entero-atmospheric fistula (EAF) is a rare, severe complication following abdominal surgery. EAF management is complex, requiring prolonged hospital stay, parenteral nutrition (PN) with high morbidity and mortality. Chyme reinfusion therapy (CRT) has improved outcomes in several studies but is not used widely for this indication. We describe a national experience of EAF patients referred for CRT using an automated reinfusion device.