Intestinal Obstruction

Question 1

What is intestinal obstruction?

Answer 1

• This is where a physical obstruction prevents the flow of faeces through the intestines.
• This blockage will lead to a back-pressure through the gastrointestinal system causing vomiting
• absolute constipation occurs where the patient is unable to pass stools or wind

Question 2

What are the causes of Intestinal Obstruction

Answer 2

• Meconium ileus
• Hirschsprung’s disease
• Intussusception
• Malrotation of the intestines with a volvulus
• Oesophageal atresia

Question 3

What is the Presentation of Intestinal Obstruction?

Answer 3

• Persistent vomiting, bilious vomiting if below the level of pyloric stenosis
• Abdominal pain and distention
• Failure to pass stools or wind
• Abnormal bowel sounds - tinkling bowel sounds

Question 4

What is the Diagnosis of Intestinal Obstruction?

Answer 4

• The initial investigation of choice is an abdominal Xray
• This may show dilated loops of bowel proximal to the obstruction and collapsed loops of bowel distal to the obstruction
• Absence of air in the rectum

Question 5

What is the Management of Intestinal Obstruction?

Answer 5

• NBM
• NG tube
• Iv fluids
• Definitive management for the obstruction