Intestinal obstruction is a condition in which lumen of food passage is blocked partially or completely anywhere in the small intestine or large intestine. If left untreated, this obstruction builds up pressure in the intestines leading to the rupture and seepage of the intestinal fluids into the abdominal cavity. Strictures, adhesive bands, Crohn’s disease, hernias, tumors and volvulus (twist in the intestine) are some of the causes for bowel obstruction.
Treatment for intestinal obstruction is based on the severity of the obstruction and its site.
When the lumen of intestine is narrow but digestive food and fluids can pass through the obstruction, the condition is termed as partial obstruction. Treatment is based on the underlying cause and how frequently the patient becomes symptomatic.
When the lumen of the intestine is narrow and doesn't allow the food to pass through, the condition is called complete obstruction. Surgery is required to open the obstruction. Once the cause is diagnosed, the block is treated. The treatment might involve the removal of the damaged or diseased part of the intestine.
Another procedure that the gastroenterologist may suggest is the opening of the block by endoscopic dilatation and keeping it patent using a stent. This is often possible in the esophagus, gastric outlet and colonic obstruction which are easily accessible by an endoscope. By employing an endoscope, which passes through the mouth into the intestine, a wire mesh is placed inside the intestine to force open the blockage and let the particles flow through.
When the intestine is not moving due to paralysis of the intestinal muscles, the condition is termed at pseudo-obstruction or paralytic ileus. Pseudo-Obstruction causes the muscles to be inactive enough to not lets food or fluids pass through. Although the lumen of the intestine is patent, the patient feels bloated and cannot pass flatus or stool. The treatment plan for pseudo-obstruction depends on what caused it. This condition is often managed with medications and surgery is not required.
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