'''Short bowel syndrome''' occurs when greater than 75-90% of 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 cannot adequately absorb nutrients and electrolytes, resulting in [[Intestine Diarrhoea - Pathology|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 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 cannot adequately absorb nutrients and electrolytes, resulting in [[Intestine Diarrhoea - Pathology|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. |