Small bowel obstruction: Clinical sciences

Question 1

What is small bowel illius ?

Answer 1

It is functional obstruction of the small intestine due to aperistalsis.

Question 2

What are the causes of mechanical SBO ?

Answer 2

Tumours, abdominal surgical Hx, and known hernias.

Question 3

What are the physical examination findings in SBO ?

Answer 3

Tachicardia, hypotension, abdominal distention, signs of peritonitis such as rebound pain, guarding etc.

Question 4

What is the conservative management of SBO ?

Answer 4

IV fluid and electrolytes, bowel rest, broad spectrum ABX, NGT for bowel decompression in the event of nausea and vomiting.

Question 5

What are the X-ray findings in SBO ?

Answer 5

• Distended small bowel loops and air fluid levels.
• Pneumoperitonium if perforation has already occured.
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Question 6

What are the CT findings in SBO ?

Answer 6

*Portal venous gas and pneumatosis.
* Transition points in the event of closed loop obstructions.

Question 7

what is the abdominal auscultation finding in SBO ?

Answer 7

High pitched sound at the site of obstruction.