Intestinal Obstruction

• Mechanical obstruction or ileus (failure of peristalsis)
• Causes: external (adhesions, volvulus, hernias, malignancies), intramural (tumours,
congenital atresia, Hirschsprung’s, IBD, diverticulitis), intraluminal (faecal impaction,
constipation, gallstone ileus, intussusception, polyps)
• Functional causes: post-operative, electrolyte imbalance, uraemia, diabetes, back pain,
anticholinergic medications
• Symptoms: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, no flatus, central colic, abdominal pain with
distension, absolute constipation
• Signs: abdominal distension, tenderness, tinkling or absent bowel sounds
• Management: medical emergency requiring admission