Mechanical Small Or Large Bowel Obstruction

Your Path

  • Mechanical Small or large bowel obstruction

Etiology

  • Adhesions (most common): priory surgeries, infection, XRT, other
  • Hernia, cancer, volvulous, other

Risk Factors

  • Older age
  • Prior abdominal surgery
  • Other processes affecting abdominal cavity/contents

Symptoms

  • N
  • V
  • Abd distention
  • Generalized abd, comes in waves
  • Decreased flatus

Physical Exam Findings

  • Distended abdomen
  • Generalized discomfort, w/increased pain if progressing to ischemia or infarct
  • Visible abnormality if from hernia
  • Palpable mass sometimes if related to cancer or other obstructing process