Bowel obstruction overview: Difference between revisions
No edit summary |
No edit summary |
||
Line 8: | Line 8: | ||
The main diagnostic tools are [[blood test]]s, [[X-ray]]s of the abdomen, [[Computed axial tomography|CT scanning]] and/or [[medical ultrasonography|ultrasound]]. If a mass is identified, [[biopsy]] may determine the nature of the mass. | The main diagnostic tools are [[blood test]]s, [[X-ray]]s of the abdomen, [[Computed axial tomography|CT scanning]] and/or [[medical ultrasonography|ultrasound]]. If a mass is identified, [[biopsy]] may determine the nature of the mass. | ||
==X Ray== | ===X Ray=== | ||
[[Radiology|Radiological]] signs of bowel obstruction include bowel distension and the presence of multiple (more than six) gas-fluid levels on supine and erect abdominal [[Radiography|radiographs]]. | [[Radiology|Radiological]] signs of bowel obstruction include bowel distension and the presence of multiple (more than six) gas-fluid levels on supine and erect abdominal [[Radiography|radiographs]]. | ||
===CT=== | |||
Contrast enema or small bowel series or [[CT scan]] can be used to define the level of obstruction, whether the obstruction is partial or complete, and to help define the cause of the obstruction. | |||
===Other Imaging Findings=== | |||
[[Colonoscopy]], small bowel investigation with ingested camera or push [[endoscopy]], and [[laparoscopy]] are other diagnostic options. | |||
==Treatment== | ==Treatment== |
Revision as of 18:26, 4 February 2013
Bowel obstruction Microchapters |
Diagnosis |
---|
Treatment |
Surgery |
Case Studies |
Bowel obstruction overview On the Web |
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Bowel obstruction overview |
Risk calculators and risk factors for Bowel obstruction overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Bowel obstruction is a mechanical or functional obstruction of the intestines, preventing the normal transit of the products of digestion. It can occur at any level distal to the duodenum of the small intestine and is a medical emergency. Although many cases are not treated surgically, it is a surgical problem.
Diagnosis
The main diagnostic tools are blood tests, X-rays of the abdomen, CT scanning and/or ultrasound. If a mass is identified, biopsy may determine the nature of the mass.
X Ray
Radiological signs of bowel obstruction include bowel distension and the presence of multiple (more than six) gas-fluid levels on supine and erect abdominal radiographs.
CT
Contrast enema or small bowel series or CT scan can be used to define the level of obstruction, whether the obstruction is partial or complete, and to help define the cause of the obstruction.
Other Imaging Findings
Colonoscopy, small bowel investigation with ingested camera or push endoscopy, and laparoscopy are other diagnostic options.
Treatment
Some causes of bowel obstruction may resolve spontaneously; many require operative treatment.