Bowel obstruction / Ileus

What are the sites of bowel obstruction?

• Small bowel
• Large bowel

What is ileus?

Dilated bowel which may be from:

• Paralytic
• Obstructive

What are the common causes of ileus?

• Paralytic ileus occurs when there is inflammation in the peritoneum, most often following abdominal surgery; or other inflammations, like appendicitis, pancreatitis, etc.
• Normal postoperative ileus lasts 48 hours.
• The absence of bowel sounds, flatus, or bowel movements beyond the expected period indicates delayed resolution, or obstructed ileus.

What are the common causes of small bowel obstruction?

• Post-op adhesions
• Gallstone ileus
• Intussusseption
• Tumors

What are the common causes of large bowel obstruction?

• Cancer colon
• Fecal impaction
• Diverticulitis