Systematic review and meta-analysis of safety and efficacy of early enteral nutrition as an isolated component of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery [ERAS] in children after bowel anastomosis surgery

Systematic review of 1,286 pediatric patients demonstrates that early enteral nutrition (within 48 hours) after bowel anastomosis surgery significantly reduces surgical site infections, septic complications, and overall complication rates compared to delayed feeding. EEN also accelerates bowel recovery and shortens hospital stay without increasing anastomotic leak risk.