[Vascular compression of the duodenum. Apropos of a case of acute obstruction]

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...

Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...