Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2026
08:20
Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: July 12, 2018
Small-bowel obstruction associated with sigmoid diverticulitis: CT evaluation in 16 patients
A Y Kim1, G L Bennett, B Bashist
1Department of Radiology, NYU Medical Center, New York 10016, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|May 9, 1998
Summary
Acute sigmoid diverticulitis can cause small-bowel obstruction. Computed tomography (CT) scans accurately diagnose this condition, aiding surgical planning and patient management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Small-bowel obstruction (SBO) is a common surgical emergency.
- Colonic diverticulitis is a frequent condition, primarily affecting the sigmoid colon.
- Diverticulitis can lead to complications, including bowel obstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify acute sigmoid diverticulitis as a cause of small-bowel obstruction.
- To describe the characteristic computed tomography (CT) findings associated with this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patient cases presenting with small-bowel obstruction.
- Analysis of CT imaging for characteristic signs of sigmoid diverticulitis.
- Correlation of imaging findings with surgical and pathological diagnoses.
Main Results:
- Acute sigmoid diverticulitis was identified as a significant cause of SBO in the studied cohort.
- Specific CT findings indicative of diverticulitis-related SBO were detailed.
- CT demonstrated high accuracy in diagnosing the etiology of SBO.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography (CT) scanning is crucial for accurate preoperative diagnosis of colonic diverticulitis causing SBO.
- Accurate diagnosis facilitates appropriate management strategies and surgical planning.
- Early identification of diverticulitis as the cause of SBO improves patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:29Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
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,...
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
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...
01:27Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
01:19Appendicitis
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...