Meat bezoar-induced small bowel obstruction: a rare but critical cause of acute intestinal distress

Acute intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency, usually caused by adhesions, tumors, or hernias. Bezoars are a rare but significant cause of small bowel obstruction (SBO), even in patients without prior gastrointestinal surgery. We report a case of a 60-year-old man with no surgical history who presented with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and absence of bowel movements. Imaging suggested SBO, and diagnostic laparoscopy confirmed a meat bezoar obstructing the terminal ileum. Histopathological examination revealed thermally altered liver parenchyma, consistent with undigested cooked meat. The bezoar was successfully removed surgically, and the patient recovered without complications. This case underscores the importance of considering bezoars, including rare forms like meat bezoars, in the differential diagnosis of SBO, particularly in patients with nonspecific symptoms. Early recognition and surgical intervention are vital to avoid serious complications such as perforation or ischemia.