Intestinal obstruction

Alternative names:

bowel obstruction; ileus; intestinal volvulus; paralytic ileus

Treatment:

The objective of treatment is to decompress the intestine with suction, using a nasogastric tube inserted into the stomach or intestine. This will relieve abdominal distention and vomiting.

Surgery to relieve the obstruction may be necessary if decompression by nasogastric tube does not relieve the symptoms, or if strangulation of the bowel or gangrene is suspected.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies with the cause of the obstruction.

Complications:

• infection
• gangrene of the bowel

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if persistent abdominal distention develops with inability to pass stool or gas, or if other new symptoms develop.