This forum is dedicated to information and issues related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); acute afferent loop syndrome (ALS) is not a condition that commonly affects IBD patients.

The afferent loop is the part of the small intestine in the area of the duodenum and jejunum. Acute afferent loop syndrome (ALS) is caused by complete obstruction of the afferent loop, most often following gastrojejunostomy Chronic ALS is caused by partial obstruction of the afferent loop.

Since ALS is a totally mechanical problem (not an organic one) surgery is the only remedy.

In acute ALS, since there is a complete obstruction, the need for surgical intervention is, generally, urgent, if not, emergent.

Depending on the amount of obstruction, and therefore, the patient's status, the surgery for chronic ALS may be scheduled on a less urgent timetable. Until that time, a low fiber diet, or even NG (nasogastric), or TPN (total parenteral feedings) would most likely be necessary.