A 48-year-old member asked:

How much of your intestine can they remove?

1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Richard Mangusanswered

Hepatology 23 years experience

Need 150-200cms: All of the intestine can be removed. However, most adults need to keep at least 150 to 200 cms of small intestine to maintain enough function to avoid complications such as dehydration, severe diarrhea, and vitamin/mineral deficiencies. When you have less than that amount, you may require supplemental IV fluids of nutrition into the vein. Some patients receive intestine transplant, if necessary.

4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Alan Ali

Dr. Alan Ali agrees1 doctor agrees

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Last updated Sep 28, 2014

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