Bowel obstruction

Question 1

Small bowel obstruction causes

Answer 1

Most common

• Adhesions
• Hernias
• Tumours

Question 2

Large bowel obstruction causes

Answer 2

Most common

• Diverticulitis
• Tumours
• IBD–> strictures

Question 3

Signs and symptoms

Answer 3

Adbo pain

• Colicky= bowel trying to overcome obstruction
• Constant main= complicated obstruction, as ischaemia of tissue occus

Adbo distention

Absence of flatus

Absent/ tinkling bowel

Constipation

Vomiting

Question 4

Complications

Answer 4

Abdominal distention
- Pressure on diaphragm= resp problems

Bowel ischaemia

Vomiting
- Hypovolaemia, loss of electrolyes

Question 5

Examinations/ investigations

Answer 5

PR

Blood tests
- Regular work, esp U+E

CT, MRI, X-Ray

Question 6

Surgical management

Answer 6

Resection
- Mass/ ischaemic bowel

Stenting
- Bowel obstruction

Colostomy/ ileostomy

Adhesion removal

Revascularisation