'''Short bowel syndrome''' occurs when greater than 75-90% of the [[Small Intestine Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] is absent. It is most commonly caused by iatrogenic surgical resection, although congenital anomaly can occur in rare cases. The remaining [[Small Intestine Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] cannot adequately absorb nutrients and electrolytes, resulting in [[Diarrhoea|diarrhoea]]. If the [[Colon - Anatomy & Physiology|ileocolic valve]] has been removed, large number of bacteria is more likely to reach the small intestine. Changes in gastrointestinal hormone regulation such as hypergastrinaemia and increased acid secretion may occur. | '''Short bowel syndrome''' occurs when greater than 75-90% of the [[Small Intestine Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] is absent. It is most commonly caused by iatrogenic surgical resection, although congenital anomaly can occur in rare cases. The remaining [[Small Intestine Overview - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] cannot adequately absorb nutrients and electrolytes, resulting in [[Diarrhoea|diarrhoea]]. If the [[Colon - Anatomy & Physiology|ileocolic valve]] has been removed, large number of bacteria is more likely to reach the small intestine. Changes in gastrointestinal hormone regulation such as hypergastrinaemia and increased acid secretion may occur. |