Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 1, 2026
07:33
A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
22.3K
An Unusual Mimic of Intermittent Bowel Obstruction
Michael Mohseni1, Brian Kruse1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|December 23, 2019
Summary
Phytobezoars, or bezoars made of undigested plant material, can cause intestinal obstruction. Endoscopic removal of a phytobezoar in this case successfully relieved the patient's obstructive symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Digestive Diseases
Background:
- Bezoars are masses of indigestible material in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Phytobezoars, a type of bezoar, form from undigested plant matter.
- They can lead to serious complications like intestinal obstruction.
Observation:
- A 42-year-old woman presented with chronic right-sided abdominal pain and vomiting.
- Initial investigations including labs and CT scans were inconclusive.
- Endoscopy revealed a phytobezoar resembling a mini bell pepper in the terminal ileum.
Findings:
- The phytobezoar was successfully removed via endoscopy.
- The patient experienced significant symptom improvement post-removal.
Implications:
- Phytobezoars can mimic other causes of intestinal obstruction.
- Endoscopic removal may be a viable alternative to surgery for small-bowel phytobezoars.
- Identifying underlying causes of bezoar formation is crucial for preventing recurrence.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
978
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,...
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
978
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
404
Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
404
01:23Lower GI Series: Barium Enema
1.1K
A Barium Enema, or a lower GI series, is a specialized radiographic examination designed to visualize the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. This procedure is instrumental in diagnosing various conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...
1.1K
01:26Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy
323
This lesson explores three gastrointestinal imaging techniques: radionuclide testing, colonic transit studies, and virtual colonoscopy.
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and...
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and...
323
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
2.0K
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
2.0K
01:30Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
682
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
682