Intestinal Obstruction Treatment in Indore

Intestinal Obstruction – Description

Intestinal obstruction involves the partial or complete blockage of the normal flow of contents through the intestines. This may take place in either the small or large intestine-colon may be caused either by a mechanical cause, which refers to physical blockage, or a functional cause, in which the muscular layers of the intestine are partially paralysed. Intestinal obstruction could lead to serious complications that include bowel ischemia, perforation, infection, and death should the condition remain untreated.

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, distension, vomiting, constipation, inability to pass gas, and sometimes fever. The goal of early recognition and treatment is to avoid complications.

Types of Intestinal Obstruction

1. Mechanical Obstruction

Caused by the physical blockage of the intestines.

Common causes include:

Adhesions (scar tissue from prior surgery) – most common in the small intestine

Hernias - intestine trapped in the abdominal wall

tumors-cancerous or benign growths

Intussusception - one segment of the intestine slips inside another

Volvulus – twisting of the intestine

Foreign bodies or impacted stool

2. Functional Obstruction (Ileus)

Due to failure of intestinal muscles to contract, without a physical blockage.

Common causes:

Postoperative ileus (after surgery)

Peritonitis, pancreatitis (infections and inflammation)

Medications (opioids, anticholinergics)

Neurological or metabolic disorders

3. Partial vs Complete Obstruction

Partial obstruction: Some intestinal contents can pass. Symptoms may be milder.

Complete obstruction-no passage of gas or stool. Symptoms are more marked. Urgent treatment is required.

Treatment of Intestinal Obstruction

1. Initial Supportive Measures

Hospitalisation and close monitoring

Fluid and electrolyte replacement (IV fluids)

Nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach and relieve vomiting

Pain management

2. Medical Treatment

Used primarily for partial or functional obstruction

Medications to alleviate symptoms, treat infection, or enhance motility

Avoid oral intake until the obstruction is resolved

3. Surgical Treatment

Indicated for mechanical obstruction or complications: strangulation, perforation, ischemia

Procedures may include:

Removal of the obstructing lesion (tumour, adhesion, foreign body)

Resection of nonviable intestine

Correction of volvulus or hernia repair

4. Treatment of Underlying Causes

Treat any underlying tumours, strictures, or inflammatory diseases

Prevention of recurrence by treatment of predisposing conditions

Prevention of Intestinal Obstruction

1. Prevent Adhesions

Minimise unnecessary abdominal surgeries

Employ careful surgical skills

2. Early Management of Hernias

Repair hernias before they become strangulated

3. Prevent Constipation

Eat a high-fibre diet, drink enough water, and exercise regularly.

Avoid the chronic use of constipating medications

4. Treatment of Underlying Intestinal Diseases: Manage conditions such as Crohn's disease, tumours, and strictures appropriately 5. Avoid swallowing foreign objects, particularly important in children and elderly patients