Effects of perioperative ω-3 fish oil fat emulsion on postoperative gastric emptying function following Roux-en-Y reconstruction for gastric cancer.

[PURPOSE] Despite standardized surgical techniques, delayed gastric emptying (DGE) remains a major complication after Roux-en-Y reconstruction in patients with gastric cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ω-3 fish oil fat emulsion in reducing DGE incidence and improving postoperative outcomes.

[METHODS] In this retrospective cohort study, 210 patients undergoing radical gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, 2018-2020) were stratified into 2 groups: the intervention group (n = 139) received parenteral nutrition (PN) with ω-3 fish oil emulsion (0.2 g/kg/d), whereas controls (n = 71) received standard PN. DGE diagnosis required persistent symptoms (>72 h postoperatively) and objective evidence of impaired motility (computed tomography contrast retention ≥ 50% at 4 h or scintigraphic T½ > 90 min), excluding mechanical obstructions (luminal stenosis < 8 mm).

[RESULTS] The ω-3 group exhibited significantly lower DGE incidence (4.3% vs 15.5%; P =.005) and shorter median postoperative hospital stay (10 vs 13 days; P <.001). Multivariate analysis identified ω-3 supplementation as an independent protective factor against DGE (odds ratio, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.11-0.96; P =.042). Symptom severity (Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index) showed progressive improvement in the ω-3 cohort, with significant reductions in nausea and vomiting scores by week 4 (P <.05).

[CONCLUSION] Perioperative ω-3 fish oil fat emulsion supplementation reduces DGE risk by 71%, accelerates recovery, and improves surgical outcomes in patients with gastric cancer undergoing Roux-en-Y reconstruction. These findings support its integration into enhanced recovery protocols, particularly in high-risk populations.