Question

An infant has a complete ileal resection with preservation of the ileocecal valve. Of the following, the primary nutrition-related concern will be

1: vitamin B12 deficiency.
2: water soluble vitamin malabsorption.
3: dumping syndrome.
4: protein malabsorption due to decreased cholecystokinin secretion.

Answer 1

The primary concern after a complete ileal resection with ileocecal valve preservation is vitamin B12 deficiency, as the ileum is where this vitamin's absorption takes place.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary nutrition-related concern following a complete ileal resection with preservation of the ileocecal valve in an infant would be vitamin B12 deficiency. The ileum is responsible for the absorption of vitamin B12 and bile salts. Since most absorption of carbohydrates and proteins occurs in the jejunum, protein malabsorption due to decreased cholecystokinin secretion is less of concern than vitamin B12 deficiency. With the ileum resected, the body's ability to absorb B12 is significantly compromised, potentially leading to mature red blood cells production issues and neurologic dysfunction without proper management.

• Vitamin B12 absorption occurs in the ileum.
• Water and lipids are absorbed throughout the small intestine, including the ileum.
• Absence of the ileum necessitates alternative means to obtain vitamin B12, such as injections.