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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
07:33
A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
Evaluation and management of intestinal obstruction
Patrick G Jackson1, Manish T Raiji
1Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
American Family Physician
|January 20, 2011
Summary
Acute intestinal obstruction, a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract, presents with pain, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis involves imaging, and treatment ranges from conservative measures to surgery for complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Acute intestinal obstruction impedes the normal flow of intestinal contents.
- Common causes include intra-abdominal adhesions, malignancy, and intestinal herniation.
- Symptoms vary based on obstruction level, typically involving nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and altered bowel function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and management strategies for acute intestinal obstruction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of acute intestinal obstruction focusing on clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.
- Emphasis on radiologic imaging, including radiography and non-contrast computed tomography (CT).
- Discussion of conservative and surgical management approaches.
Main Results:
- Clinical presentation includes nausea, emesis, colicky abdominal pain, and failure to pass flatus or stool.
- Physical exam findings may reveal abdominal distension, tympany, and high-pitched bowel sounds.
- Non-contrast CT is recommended for high suspicion or persistent uncertainty after radiography.
Conclusions:
- Management involves fluid resuscitation, metabolic correction, intestinal decompression, and bowel rest for uncomplicated cases.
- Surgical intervention is indicated for signs of vascular compromise, perforation, or failure to improve with conservative treatment.
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