What is the main consequence of reduced intestinal motility in patients with cirrhosis?

In patients with cirrhosis, reduced intestinal motility can lead to the translocation of bacteria. This process occurs because the slower transit time in the intestines allows for the overgrowth of intestinal bacteria, which can then cross the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream. This bacterial translocation is significant because it can precipitate infections, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, particularly in patients with ascites.

Furthermore, the compromised liver function associated with cirrhosis diminishes the liver's ability to clear toxins and regulate immune responses, further increasing susceptibility to infections. This highlights the interconnection between gut motility and systemic health in patients with liver disease, showcasing how alterations in the gut can have profound systemic consequences.

Consequently, while other options may be relevant to complications of cirrhosis, the primary consequence directly tied to reduced intestinal motility is clearly the risk of bacterial translocation leading to infection.