Small bowel obstruction Flashcards
1
Q
What is the main concern when faced with small bowel obstruction?
A
Strangulation
2
Q
How would you treat a patient with small bowel obstruction with no sign of strangulation?
A
IV fluids + nasogastric suction
Operate if no resolution 24-48 hours
3
Q
How would you treat a patient with small bowel obstruction with strangulation?
A
Resuscitate
Antibiotics
Early Surgery
4
Q
What are the signs of strangulation in a patient?
A
Constant pain
Signs of sepsis
Shock
(If untreated - multisystem organ failure)
5
Q
What is the medical therapy for a patient with Crohn’s disease?
A
Steroids and immunosuppression
6
Q
Why might you confuse small bowel ischaemia/infarction with pancreatitis?
A
Amylase levels are increased.
