Ileus

Question 1

What is ileus?

Answer 1

A condition which affects the small bowel resulting in temporary loss of peristalsis.

Question 2

What is pesudo-obstruction?

Answer 2

Functional obstruction of the large bowel

Question 3

What are the causes of ileus?

Answer 3

• Injury to bowel
• Handling of bowel during surgery,
• Inflammation or infection nearby,
• Electrolyte imbalance (hypokalaemia/hyponatraemia)
• Most commonly occurs after abdominal surgery

Question 4

What are the signs and symptoms of ileus?

Answer 4

• Vomiting (GREEN BILIOUS VOMIT)
• Abdominal distention,
• Diffuse abdominal pain,
• Absolute constipation and lack of flatulence.
• Absent bowel sounds (as opposed to tinkling bowel sounds heard in obstruction)

Question 5

WHat is the management of ileus?

Answer 5

Nil by mouth or small sips of water,
NG tube if vomiting
IV fluids
Mobilization to help peristalsis
Total parenteral nutrition ( may be required)