Early diagnosis of bowel obstruction and strangulation by computed tomography in emergency department

Closed loop bowel obstruction is a specific type of mechanical obstruction with a high risk of strangulation and bowel infarction, especially in the small bowel. It is associated with a high mortality rate. Hence, it is important for emergency physicians to identify the presence of strangulation, while making the diagnosis of closed loop small bowel obstruction.

We reported three patients with strangulated closed loop small bowel obstruction associated with severe abdominal pain, who had been treated at the emergency department. Urgent computerized tomography was performed in the patients.

Two patients were discharged with stable conditions, and one patient died after hemodialysis.

Urgent computerized tomography of the abdomen serves as an important diagnostic tool in view of its ability to detect the site, level and cause of obstruction along with the distinctive CT appearance of closed loop small bowel obstruction and signs of ischemia. Early definitive diagnosis will guide subsequent management and improve outcomes.