Obstruction of small intestine

Etiology

  • Mechanical obstruction of small intestine or proximal colon, eg, adhesions, volvulus, Crohn’s disease
  • Acute paralytic ileus due to:
    • Gastrointestinal (GI) or abdominal surgery
    • Peritoneal irritation, eg, peritonitis, pancreatitis, ruptured viscus
    • Severe medical illness, eg, sepsis, electrolyte abnormality
    • Drugs, eg, opioids, anticholinergics
    • Myxedema (hypothyroidism)
  • Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction

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Last updated: December 1, 2014