Intestinal obstruction

Question 1

Causes of intestinal obstruction

Answer 1

Meconium ileus, Hirschsprungs, Oesophageal atresia, Intussusception, Imperforate anus, malrotation, vovulus, strangulated hernia

Question 2

Presentation of intestinal obstruction

Answer 2

Persistent vomiting which may be bilious, abdominal pain and distention, failure to pass stools or wind and abnormal bowel sounds

Question 3

Diagnosing an intestinal obstruction

Answer 3

Abdominal XR shows dilated loops of bowel and collapsed loops distal to obstruction. Absence of air in rectum

Question 4

Management of abdominal obstruction

Answer 4

Surgical emergency so make nil by mouth and insert NG tube to help drain stomach and stop vomiting.
IV fluids to correct for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances