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Food bolus intestinal obstruction in a Chinese population
1Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong.
Background:
The aim of the present study was to review the authors' experience of the diagnosis and management of food bolus obstruction in a Chinese population.
Methods:
During the period 1990-96, 31 patients were treated for food bolus obstruction. The records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed.
Results:
Eighteen patients (58%) had a history of previous gastric surgery and 13 patients (42%) had an intact gastrointestinal tract. The most common site of impaction was the terminal ileum, and a synchronous site of food bolus obstruction was present in 16% of cases. A total of 91% of the food bolus retrieved was phytobezoar. In 15 cases, the food bolus was successfully milked into the caecum. Enterotomy for removal was necessary in 12 patients, and two underwent small-bowel resection for necrosis.
Conclusion:
Food bolus obstruction affects not only those who have had previous gastric surgery, but also a significant proportion of those with an intact gastrointestinal tract.