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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation01:25

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Introduction
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection.
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...
Abdominal Aorta01:25

Abdominal Aorta

Once the aorta traverses the diaphragmatic plane at the aortic hiatus, it is known as the abdominal aorta. This anatomical structure is positioned leftward of the spinal column, encased within a cocoon of adipose tissue behind the peritoneal cavity. It terminates at the L4 vertebra, where it splits into the common iliac arteries. Prior to this bifurcation, the abdominal aorta gives rise to several vital branches.
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...
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...
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,...
Hiatal Hernia01:25

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is the abnormal protrusion of the stomach or other abdominal organs through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.Normally, the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) lies below the diaphragm and is supported by the phrenoesophageal membrane, the diaphragmatic crura, and connective tissues. Weakening of these structures—due to aging, congenital defects like a short esophagus, or increased intra-abdominal pressure from coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or heavy...

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Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
05:50

Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation

Published on: September 22, 2023

[A man with abdominal gas].

Jelle P Ruurda1, Richard van Hillegersberg

  • 1Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht, afd. Heelkunde, Utrecht, The Netherlands. j.p.ruurda@amc.uva.nl

Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|May 12, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

A 52-year-old man developed intestinal pneumatosis, a rare condition of air in the bowel, following palliative chemotherapy. This case highlights a potential gastrointestinal complication of cancer treatment.

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Thermal Ablation for the Treatment of Abdominal Tumors
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Thermal Ablation for the Treatment of Abdominal Tumors

Published on: March 7, 2011

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Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
05:50

Gastric Point of Care Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation

Published on: September 22, 2023

Thermal Ablation for the Treatment of Abdominal Tumors
07:16

Thermal Ablation for the Treatment of Abdominal Tumors

Published on: March 7, 2011

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Oncology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Palliative chemotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer care, aiming to improve quality of life.
  • Gastrointestinal complications can arise during cancer treatment, impacting patient well-being.
  • Intestinal pneumatosis, characterized by gas within the intestinal wall, is an uncommon finding.

Observation:

  • A 52-year-old male patient undergoing palliative chemotherapy presented with abdominal symptoms.
  • Diagnostic imaging revealed the presence of intestinal pneumatosis.

Findings:

  • The patient's intestinal pneumatosis was identified as a complication subsequent to receiving palliative chemotherapy.
  • The specific chemotherapy regimen and its direct link to pneumatosis require further investigation.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare gastrointestinal side effects of chemotherapy.
  • Awareness of intestinal pneumatosis in patients receiving palliative chemotherapy is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.
  • Further research may elucidate the mechanisms linking specific chemotherapeutic agents to intestinal pneumatosis.