illeus

Question 1

where does illeus normally affect?

Answer 1

• small bowel
• reduced peristalsis in the small bowels
• also called paralytic illeus

Question 2

what does pseudo obstruction suggest?

Answer 2

• functional obstruction of the large bowel
• less common than small bowel illeus
• patients present with obstruction but no mechanical cause can be found

Question 3

what are some causes of illeus?

Answer 3

• injury to the bowel
• Handling of the bowel during surgery
• Inflammation or infection in, or nearby, the bowel (e.g., peritonitis, appendicitis, pancreatitis or pneumonia)
• Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypokalaemia or hyponatraemia

Question 4

how does illeus differ from a mechanical cause of obstruction?

Answer 4

• bowel sounds are absent instead of tinkling

Question 5

what is the management for illeus?

Answer 5

• Nil by mouth or limited sips of water
• NG tube if vomiting
• IV fluids to prevent dehydration and correct the electrolyte imbalances
• Mobilisation to helps stimulate peristalsis
• Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) may be required whilst waiting for the bowel to regain function