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Intestinal Obstruction

An acute surgical condition in which the small or large intestine is obstructed due to mechanical or functional causes.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Intestinal Obstruction?

Intestinal obstruction is a condition in which the contents of the small or large intestine cannot advance. Mechanical causes (adhesions, hernia, tumor, volvulus) or functional causes (ileus) can lead to obstruction.

The most common cause is adhesions from previous abdominal surgeries. These adhesions can cause the intestine to twist or become pinched.

If obstruction is not treated and blood flow to the intestinal wall is cut off, intestinal necrosis develops and a life-threatening condition emerges. For this reason, urgent diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Symptoms

Cramping, intermittent abdominal pain
Vomiting of gastric content or bile
Inability to pass gas and stool
Abdominal distension and tightness
First increase then decrease in bowel sounds
Weakness due to dehydration and electrolyte disturbance

Risk Factors

Previous abdominal or pelvic surgery
Intra-abdominal hernias
Colorectal cancer or other intra-abdominal tumors
Crohn's disease and inflammatory bowel diseases
Volvulus (intestine twisting around its own axis)
Intussusception (especially in children)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Abdominal distension together with inability to pass gas and stool
  • Severe and persistent abdominal pain
  • Green-yellow (bilious) vomiting
  • Abdominal rigidity and tenderness (sign of necrosis)
  • Abdominal symptoms with fever and tachycardia (emergency)

Treatment Methods

01
Supportive therapy with nasogastric decompression, IV fluid, and electrolyte replacement
02
Conservative observation (48-72 hours) in adhesion-related partial obstruction
03
Water-soluble contrast study: both diagnostic and therapeutic in resolving adhesive obstruction
04
Laparoscopic adhesiolysis: surgical release of adhesions
05
Open surgery: in complex, strangulated, or necrotic intestinal obstructions
06
Stent or palliative resection in malignancy-related obstruction

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.