Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal obstruction is a serious gastrointestinal disorder that happens when the intestinal lumen is partially or completely blocked, which stops the normal flow of materials. It can affect the small or large intestine and is generally divided into two types: mechanical and functional. Mechanical reasons include adhesions (the most prevalent), hernias, tumours, volvulus, and strictures. Paralytic ileus is a type of functional obstruction that happens when peristalsis doesn't work right, but there isn't a physical blockage.

Small intestinal obstruction is a common issue that happens after surgery and is often linked to adhesions in the small bowel. In the colon, blockage may occur due to malignancies such as colorectal cancer or inflammatory strictures.
Clinical signs encompass colicky stomach discomfort, vomiting, abdominal distension, constipation, and the inability to expel flatus. In severe situations, intestinal ischaemia, perforation, peritonitis, and sepsis might develop, necessitating surgical intervention. The diagnosis entails abdominal examination, radiography, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography for accurate localisation and aetiology determination.

The severity and cause of the problem determine how to handle it. Fluid resuscitation, electrolyte correction, nasogastric decompression, and constant monitoring are all parts of conservative treatment. Surgery is necessary when strangulation, perforation, or unsuccessful conservative treatment occurs. To lower the risk of illness and death, it is important to find and treat problems early.