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A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
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When the Pediatric Gut Stops: The Pattern of Intestinal Obstruction in Children
Greeshma Suresh1, Pranav Yadav1, Surajit Das1
1Pediatric Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, IND.
Cureus
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Pediatric intestinal obstruction causes are shifting, with appendicular perforation, Meckel's diverticulum, and hernias being most common. Delayed presentation significantly impacts outcomes in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- Intestinal obstruction is a critical pediatric surgical emergency.
- It significantly contributes to childhood morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current etiological patterns of intestinal obstruction in children.
- To evaluate the outcomes associated with pediatric intestinal obstruction.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective observational study of 213 children (1 month to 15 years) with intestinal obstruction.
- Data collected included clinical, demographic, radiological, operative, and outcome information.
- Statistical analysis performed using SPSS version 26.0.
Main Results:
- Appendicular perforation (17.37%), Meckel's diverticulum (15.49%), and obstructed inguinal hernia (15.02%) were leading causes.
- In infants, obstructed inguinal hernia (20.14%) and intussusception (18.18%) were most frequent.
- Surgical intervention was required in 95.30% of cases, with an overall mortality of 0.94%.
Conclusions:
- The etiology of pediatric intestinal obstruction is evolving in developing nations.
- Appendicular perforation, Meckel's diverticulum, obstructed hernia, and intussusception are now primary causes.
- Delayed presentation is a key factor linked to adverse outcomes.
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