Related Experiment Videos
Intestinal obstruction in Khartoum
E O Sourkati1, A H Fahal, S H Suliman
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Sudan.
Insights
This study reviewed 239 intestinal obstruction cases, finding strangulated hernias and adhesions as primary causes. High mortality rates underscore the need for improved patient care and timely interventions.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Intestinal obstruction is a significant surgical emergency.
- Understanding its causes and outcomes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the etiological patterns of intestinal obstruction.
- To determine the associated mortality rates.
- To identify factors contributing to mortality.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 239 intestinal obstruction cases.
- Data collection on patient demographics, causes, and outcomes.
- Statistical analysis of common etiologies and mortality factors.
Main Results:
- Common causes: strangulated external hernias (27.7%), intestinal adhesions (21%), intussusception (12%), sigmoid volvulus (11%).
- Inguinal hernias were the most frequent strangulated hernias (70%).
- Mortality rate was 19.7%, linked to delayed presentation and complications.
Conclusions:
- Strangulated hernias and adhesions are leading causes of intestinal obstruction.
- High mortality necessitates improved health education, surgical preparation, and postoperative care.
- Timely intervention is critical to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Abstract:
The pattern of intestinal obstruction at Khartoum Teaching Hospital was reviewed in this study which included 239 patients. 170 of them were males and 68 were females. Their ages ranged from two days to 95 years (mean 31.4 +/- 5.3 years). The commonest causes of intestinal obstruction were strangulated external hernias (27.7%), intestinal adhesions (21%), intussusception (12%) and sigmoid volvulus (11%). Less frequent causes were paralytic ileus, large bowel tumours, peritoneal bands and Hirschsprung's disease. Of the strangulated hernias, inguinal hernia (70%) was the most frequent type of hernia seen, followed by paraumbilical hernia (20%). Previous appendicectomy (40%) and laparotomy for abdominal trauma (20%) were the commonest causes of adhesive intestinal obstruction. The mortality rate of intestinal obstruction was 19.7%. This high mortality is attributed to delayed presentation, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, intestinal ischaemia and gangrene. This could be minimised by health education, adequate preoperative preparation, meticulous surgical technique and good postoperative care.