Mortality and economics in short bowel syndrome

Adult zebrafish intestine resection: a novel model of short bowel syndrome, adaptation, and intestinal stem cell regeneration

“…However, this condition also affects adult patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease and cancer, among other rare diagnoses (25,44). Current treatments are inadequate and associated with significant morbidity: the five-year mortality rate is greater than 30% (40,48). Long-term supplementation with intravenous nutrition (total parenteral nutrition, TPN) is associated with hepatic failure, sepsis, and death (34).…”

A Multicellular Approach Forms a Significant Amount of Tissue-Engineered Small Intestine in the Mouse

“…The incidence of SBS is increasing, estimated at 24.5 per 100,000 live births in 2004, 10 with a 30% 5 year mortality rate and annual costs/patient in Europe ranging from $100,000 to 150,000. 11 Cost estimates for pediatric patients with SBS in the United States have been widely variable, but the average estimate is about $1000/day, without including multiple hospitalizations for catheter-related sepsis or eventual liver or liver/small bowel transplant. Although the success rate of intestinal transplantation to treat SBS is improving, a recent review of 141 intestinal transplants in 123 children reveals a 3-year patient survival rate of 60%.…”

Is orphan drug pricing blowing a bubble? The unique situation of orphan drugs and why high prices will likely persist

“…SBS is caused by either congenital defects or the physical resectioning of the intestines, and causes a decrease in the absorptive surface area of the intestines. Individuals suffering from SBS are often dependent on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) treatment, which involves daily intravenous infusions of nutrients [15]. Gattex increases villus height, mucosal surface area and intestinal blood flow, thereby promoting improved intestinal absorption and decreasing the need for TPN therapy.…”