Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 18, 2026

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
07:33

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction

Published on: March 5, 2018

Delayed presentation of trichobezoar with small bowel obstruction

Naima Zamir1, Jamshed Akhtar, Soofia Ahmed

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health Karachi, Pakistan.

APSP Journal of Case Reports
|September 7, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of small bowel obstruction in a child was caused by a trichobezoar, a mass of ingested hair. Surgical removal of the hair mass led to an uneventful recovery, highlighting a rare but treatable cause of intestinal obstruction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Small bowel obstruction is a frequent surgical emergency.
  • Trichobezoars are rare causes of intestinal obstruction, particularly in children.
  • Rapunzel syndrome, a specific type of trichobezoar extending into the colon, is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 7-year-old female presented with symptoms of acute intestinal obstruction.
  • A palpable, mobile abdominal mass was detected.
  • Surgical exploration revealed a 10 cm trichobezoar in the distal ileum.

Findings:

  • The trichobezoar was successfully removed via enterotomy.
  • The patient experienced an uncomplicated postoperative recovery.
  • A history of trichophagia (hair eating) was identified, starting at age 2 and lasting 18 months, leading to alopecia.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering trichobezoars in the differential diagnosis of pediatric intestinal obstruction.
  • Early identification and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Understanding the behavioral etiology (trichophagia) is key to preventing recurrence.

Keywords:
ChildIntestinal obstructionTrichobezoar

More Related Videos

Targeting the Rat's Small Bowel: Long-Term Infusion into the Superior Mesenteric Artery07:12

Targeting the Rat's Small Bowel: Long-Term Infusion into the Superior Mesenteric Artery

Published on: April 8, 2021

Intraoperative Video Consultation Following Bile Duct Transection Facilitates Direct OR Transfer for Robotic Hepaticojejunostomy at Tertiary Center07:48

Intraoperative Video Consultation Following Bile Duct Transection Facilitates Direct OR Transfer for Robotic Hepaticojejunostomy at Tertiary Center

Published on: January 9, 2026

Related Concept Videos

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
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...
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,...
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...
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS01:17

Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a subtype of IBS characterized primarily by frequent, loose, or watery stools, abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort. Therapeutic approaches to managing IBS-D include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and pharmaceutical interventions.
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Adsorbents as Antidiarrheal Agents01:20

Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Adsorbents as Antidiarrheal Agents

Diarrhea is characterized by the occurrence of frequent, watery bowel movements. Various factors can trigger diarrhea, including viral or bacterial infections, foodborne illnesses, side effects from certain medications, and underlying digestive disorders. If not adequately managed, diarrhea can lead to complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies. Severe diarrhea can lead to significant weight loss, malnutrition, and weakened immune function.
Adsorbents...