Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
14:05
A Murine Model of Irreversible and Reversible Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction
Published on: December 20, 2014
Enterolith causing afferent loop obstruction: a case report and literature review
Michael C Lee1, James T Bui, M-Grace Knuttinen
1Division of Interventional Radiology (M/C 931), University of Illinois Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology
|April 15, 2009
Summary
Enteroliths can rarely obstruct the afferent limb after Billroth II surgery. Ultrasound-guided decompression successfully treated a 15-year-old with ascending cholangitis caused by an incarcerated enterolith.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
Background:
- Enterolith formation is a rare complication following Billroth II gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy.
- Afferent limb obstruction due to enteroliths presents a diagnostic and management challenge.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old patient presented with ascending cholangitis.
- The cause was identified as an enterolith incarcerated within the afferent loop of a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy.
Findings:
- The patient's condition was emergently managed with ultrasound-guided decompression prior to surgical intervention.
- This case represents the thirteenth reported instance of enterolith-induced afferent limb obstruction.
Implications:
- This case highlights the utility of ultrasound guidance in managing emergent complications of Roux-en-Y surgery.
- Early recognition and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in enterolith-related afferent limb obstruction.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Intestinal 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,...
01:07Intestinal 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...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:11Pyloric 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...
01:26Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Renal calculi, commonly termed kidney stones, are crystalline solid masses that form in the kidneys but can occur at any point within the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.The pathophysiology of renal stones involves several key factors: supersaturation of the urine with stone-forming constituents, changes in urine pH, a decrease in urine volume, and the presence of substances that promote or inhibit stone formation.Supersaturation of Urine: This is the...