Bowel obstruction

Question 1

Give 3 radiographic features of small bowel obstruction

Answer 1

Dilated loops of small bowel
Valvulae conniventes visible
Air fluid levels present
Gasless abdomen

Question 2

What is the management of SBO?

Answer 2

NG tube
IV fluids
Bloods (FBC, U+E, clotting, G+S)
CT abdomen and pelvis
Erect CXR (look for perforation)
Urgent surgical review