Intestinal obstruction

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Digestive system	Ileus - X-ray of bowel distension	Ileus - X-ray of distended bowel and stomach	Intussusception - x-ray
Small bowel obstruction - X-ray	Small bowel resection - series	Volvulus - X-ray

Paralytic ileus; Intestinal volvulus; Bowel obstruction; Ileus; Pseudo-obstruction - intestinal

The objective of treatment is to decompress the intestine with suction, using a nasogastric (NG) tube inserted into the stomach or intestine. This will relieve abdominal distention and vomiting.

Surgery to relieve the obstruction may be necessary if decompression by NG tube does not relieve the symptoms, or if tissue death is suspected.

The outcome varies with the cause of the obstruction.

• Infection
• Gangrene of the bowel
• Perforation (hole) in the intestine

Call your health care provider if persistent abdominal distention develops and you are unable to pass stool or gas, or if other symptoms of intestinal obstruction develop.

Review Date: 07/28/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-TorresdaleHospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.