Intestinal Obstruction Flashcards
1
Q
What are the two main subcategories of intestinal obstruction?
A
Mechanical obstruction
A dynamic ileus aka paralytic ileus
2
Q
What are the two most common causes of obstructions in the United States?
A
Most common is adhesions (scar tissue)
Second most common is hernias
3
Q
What are the signs and symptoms of abdominal pain?
A
Crappy, intermittent abdominal pain
They will typically feel the need to move to a comfortable position
Intermittent pain is thought to be caused by the periodic contractions of peristalsis.
4
Q
How do you treat small bowel obstruction?
A
Surgical intervention is often necessary with NG tube as well.
5
Q
What usually causes large bowel obstructions?
A
Adenocarcinomas
