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Related Concept Videos

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice
08:20

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice

Published on: July 12, 2018

Colonic pseudo-obstruction.

R Durai1

  • 1Department of Surgery, Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup DA14 6LT, The United Kingdom. dr_durai@yahoo.com

Singapore Medical Journal
|April 9, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Colonic pseudo-obstruction, a condition mimicking intestinal blockage due to autonomic imbalance, requires conservative management initially. Surgical intervention is reserved for severe cases with perforation risks, yet outcomes remain challenging.

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A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
07:33

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction

Published on: March 5, 2018

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Last Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice
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Published on: July 12, 2018

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
07:33

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction

Published on: March 5, 2018

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Colorectal Surgery
  • Autonomic Neuroscience

Background:

  • Colonic pseudo-obstruction (CPO) is frequently misdiagnosed as mechanical intestinal obstruction.
  • CPO arises from autonomic nervous system imbalance, specifically sympathetic over-activity impacting the colon.
  • Affected patients are typically elderly with multiple co-existing health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To delineate the diagnostic and management strategies for colonic pseudo-obstruction.
  • To highlight the differential diagnosis between CPO and mechanical bowel obstruction.
  • To review treatment outcomes and identify challenges in managing CPO.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnosis involves excluding mechanical obstruction via contrast enema.
  • Initial conservative management includes nasogastric and flatus tubes for at least 48 hours.
  • Treatment addresses precipitating factors and may involve prokinetic agents or colonoscopic decompression.

Main Results:

  • Conservative treatment is the first-line approach for uncomplicated CPO.
  • Colonoscopic decompression or prokinetic agents are considered if initial measures fail.
  • Surgical options like caecostomy or hemicolectomy are indicated for impending perforation or ischemia.

Conclusions:

  • Despite various interventions, the prognosis for colonic pseudo-obstruction remains unfavorable.
  • Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to prevent severe complications.
  • Further research may be needed to improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.