Diet Recommendations After Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection (EFTR) in the Stomach Using FTRD
After Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection (EFTR) in the stomach using FTRD, patients should follow a gradual diet progression starting with clear liquids for 24-48 hours, advancing to full liquids by day 3-7, then to pureed foods by week 1-2, soft foods by week 2, and regular solid foods by 1 month post-procedure.
Initial Diet Progression
- Begin with clear liquids at room temperature for the first 24-48 hours post-procedure, gradually increasing volume to reach approximately 2 liters per day 1
- Consume liquids in small portions (no more than half a cup per serving) to prevent distension of the surgical site 1
- Progress to full liquids including milk, soy drinks, and plain yogurt at 3-7 days post-procedure 1
- Advance to pureed or mashed foods at 1-2 weeks post-procedure 1
- Introduce soft foods (e.g., soft meatballs, scrambled eggs, cooked vegetables, soft fruits) at 2 weeks post-procedure 1
- Progress to solid foods including legumes, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, and bread at approximately 1 month post-procedure 1
- Return to a regular balanced solid diet by 2 months post-procedure 1
Key Dietary Principles
- Separate liquids from solids by avoiding drinking beverages 15 minutes before or 30 minutes after eating to prevent distension and discomfort 1
- Plan and arrange frequent small meals throughout the day (4-6 meals daily) according to the post-procedural stage 1
- Eat slowly and methodically chew food thoroughly to prevent complications 1
- Avoid carbonated beverages which can cause bloating and discomfort 1
Specific Recommendations to Prevent Complications
To Prevent Dysphagia
- Ensure thorough mastication (chew each bite at least 15 times) and eat slowly (wait a minute between swallows) 1
- Avoid hard and dry foods such as toast or overcooked meat that may be difficult to swallow 1
- If dysphagia occurs, discontinue eating immediately to prevent regurgitation 1
To Prevent Vomiting
- Take small bites, chew thoroughly, and eat slowly with meal duration of at least 15 minutes 1
- Separate liquids from solids as mentioned above 1
- Space meals at intervals of at least 2-4 hours 1
To Manage Potential Diarrhea and Flatulence
- Prefer low-lactose or lactose-free milk products 1
- Reduce fat consumption and customize menus accordingly 1
- Ensure adequate fluid intake of at least 1.5 L/day 1
- Avoid gas-producing foods such as cauliflower and legumes 1
- Avoid chewing gum which can lead to aerophagia 1
Nutritional Considerations
- Ensure adequate protein intake to support healing 1
- Make an effort to eat a balanced diet while limiting consumption of calorie-dense foods and drinks 1
- Avoid foods that can form phytobezoars, such as persimmons and citrus fruit pith 1
Evidence from Similar Procedures
Research on early feeding after endoscopic procedures in the stomach suggests:
- Early initiation of solid foods after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been shown to be feasible and associated with higher quality of life compared to traditional liquid diets 2
- Direct oral feeding after minimally invasive esophagectomy did not increase complications or anastomotic leakage rates compared to delayed feeding 3
Caution Signs
- If experiencing persistent vomiting, consider thiamin supplementation and monitor hydration and blood electrolytes 1
- If experiencing dysphagia, discontinue eating immediately to prevent regurgitation 1
- If experiencing significant gastrointestinal symptoms that persist despite dietary modifications, consult with your healthcare provider 1
Following these dietary recommendations after EFTR in the stomach using FTRD will help optimize recovery and minimize post-procedural complications.