Intestinal Obstruction

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Introduction

An obstruction is a blockage of the intestinal lumen, and can be partial or complete. They may be acute, lasting hours, or chronic lasting up to weeks.

 

 

The Case of...

 

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Causes and Risk Factors

Simple obstructions do not prevent blood flow, while strangulated obstructions occur with cessation of blood flow.

hernias

fibrous foods

adhesions

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Pathophysiology

 

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Signs and Symptoms

  • history
  • physical exam

History

SBO due to ischemia can cause sudden, severe pain, compared with colicky pain for other causes of SBO.

bilious emesis

"what did you eat?"

Physical Exam

no tenderness

tinkling bowel sounds

distended abdomen

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Investigations

  • lab investigations
  • diagnostic imaging

Lab Investigations

Diagnostic Imaging

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Differential Diagnosis

 

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Treatments

 

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Consequences and Course

 

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The Case of...

 

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Additional Resources

 

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Topic Development

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