Resectional colon and rectal surgeries are the mainstay treatment for colorecal cancer and diverticular diseases and require the reformation of a healthy bowel connection (anastomosis). Despite optimal surgical technique, post-operative complications including anastomotic leak as well as surgical site infections (SSI) and Clostridioides difficile infection may occur. The intestinal microbiota is a key feature that can mediate wound healing and may contribute to post-surgical outcomes.
Current Experiments
- The Role of Surgical Bowel Preparation and Microbiota on Anastomotic Dehiscence
- Funding: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Career Development Award (Jahansouz PI)
- This project investigates the role of the intestinal microbiota in the development of anastomotic leaks, a devastating complication, in a murine model of colorectal surgery.
- Impact of Diet on Intestinal Microbiota and Anastomotic Leak in a Murine Model of Colonic Anastomosis
- Funding: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons General Surgery Resident Research Initiation Grant (Boatman PI)
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This project investigates the impact of different diets on the occurrence of anastomotic leaks in a murine model of colorectal surgery.
- Bacterial Intestinal Gut Modification After Cancer Surgery (BIGS-MACS)
- Funding: Allen Foundation Award (Jahansouz, Johnson, Staley, co-PIs)
- This project investigates the impact of diet on recovery following colorectal surgery. We will test the feasibility and efficacy of a microbiome-targeted diet on nutrition and metabolism.