An integrative review on the effect of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics on infection after colorectal cancer surgery

Prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics are known to promote a homeostatic microbial balance in the intestines, thus improving gut function. Some studies show that use of these microorganisms perioperatively in gastrointestinal surgeries improves patient outcomes with a faster return of gut motility, decreased infection rates, and a reduction in postoperative complications. We evaluated the literature to determine whether the use of perioperative prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery improves the incidence of infectious complications and inflammatory response outcomes. We conducted a comprehensive search of Scopus, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, which yielded seven studies. The studies’ findings showed conflicting results regarding the incorporation of perioperative prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics and the rate of postoperative infectious complications, and showed no effect on systemic inflammatory response. Conflicting data indicate additional studies are needed before determining whether a practice change is warranted.