Association of decreased variation of coefficient R-R interval with ischemic colitis and small bowel obstruction.

Background: The parasympathetic nervous system exerts and controls intestinal tone. Several studies have suggested that the coefficient of the R-R intervals (CVRR) is useful for evaluating the parasympathetic nervous system.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between gastrointestinal emergencies, specifically ischemic colitis (IC) and small bowel obstruction (SBO), and the autonomic nervous system.
Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 13 patients with IC or SBO aged ≧65 years were analyzed. CVRR was measured in patients with IC and SBO and controls.
Results: CVRR averaged to 8.8% ± 2.5% in controls, 1.4% ± 0.4% in patients with IC, and 2.4% ± 1.0% in SBO groups (p < 0.001). CVRR was significantly lower in patients with IC and SBO than that in controls.
Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate the possibility that CVRR may serve as a clinical index for assessing the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system in patients with IC or SBO.
Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.