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...
Causes and Risk Factors
Simple obstructions do not prevent blood flow, while strangulated obstructions occur with cessation of blood flow.
hernias
fibrous foods
adhesions
Pathophysiology
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
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Diagnostic Imaging
Differential Diagnosis
Treatments
Consequences and Course
Resources and References
Topic Development
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