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Surgical Robot-Assisted Transanal Specimen Extraction Radical Sigmoidectomy Without an Auxiliary Abdominal Incision
Published on: June 13, 2025
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Small bowel obstruction after transoral robotic surgery.
Joseph McClellan1, Virginie Achim1, Daniel Clayburgh1
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon.
Head & Neck
|November 10, 2017
Summary
Head and neck surgery can lead to intestinal ileus and small bowel obstruction, especially in patients with prior abdominal surgery. This case highlights the importance of considering these risks post-operatively.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Head and neck surgery is not typically associated with intestinal ileus or small bowel obstruction.
- Patients undergoing head and neck procedures may have a history of abdominal surgery, a known risk factor for small bowel obstruction.
Observation:
- A case of transoral robotic surgery for head and neck pathology is presented.
- The patient experienced delayed postoperative ileus and subsequently developed small bowel obstruction.
Findings:
- The small bowel obstruction necessitated an exploratory laparotomy and bowel resection.
- Recovery involved total parenteral nutrition, followed by tube feeds, and eventually an oral diet.
Implications:
- Intestinal ileus and small bowel obstruction are uncommon but possible complications of head and neck surgery.
- Contributing factors include surgical stress, inflammation, narcotic pain medication, and prior abdominal surgeries.
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