Bowel Obstruction
Bowel obstruction is a blockage that prevents food or fluid from passing through the intestines.
It can result from adhesions, hernias, or tumors, requiring prompt diagnosis and often surgical intervention.
Overview And Clinical Background
A bowel obstruction can be mechanical or functional.
Mechanical causes involve physical blockage; functional (ileus) involves lack of movement.
- Types: Small or large bowel obstruction.
- Can result from adhesions, tumors, or strictures.
- Severity: Complete or partial obstruction determines urgency.
Symptoms, Signs And Presentation
Typical signs include abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting.
Severe cases show no passage of stool or gas.
- Pain: Colicky and severe in nature.
- Abdominal distension and nausea.
- Emergency sign: Persistent vomiting or no bowel movement.
Diagnosis Methods And Investigations
Diagnosis relies on imaging to identify the site and cause of blockage.
Blood tests help assess dehydration and infection.
- X-ray/CT: Shows dilated bowel loops or air-fluid levels.
- Ultrasound: Useful in children and pregnant patients.
- Lab tests for electrolyte imbalance or infection.
Treatment Options And Surgical Techniques
Initial management includes IV fluids and decompression.
Surgery may be required for complete or strangulated obstruction.
- Conservative: Nasogastric decompression and fluid resuscitation.
- Surgical: Resection or correction of underlying cause.
- Laparoscopic approaches reduce recovery time.
Recovery, Risks And Prognosis
Recovery depends on severity and cause.
Early intervention prevents complications like perforation or sepsis.
Why Choose Us
CureU Healthcare offers expert gastro and surgical teams to manage bowel obstruction efficiently.
Patients benefit from precise diagnosis and safe recovery.
Conclusion
Bowel obstruction is serious but treatable.
Timely care ensures full recovery and prevents recurrence.
