Overview
SBO is a partial or complete blockage of the small intestine. It prevents food, fluids, and gas from moving normally.
Causes
• Adhesions (scar tissue)
• Hernias
• Tumors
• Crohn’s strictures
• Volvulus
• Intussusception
Symptoms
• Colicky abdominal pain
• Vomiting (sometimes bile)
• Abdominal distension
• Constipation
• No gas passing
Diagnosis
• CT scan
• X-ray
• Labs
Treatment
• NG tube decompression
• IV fluids
• Observation
• Surgery if severe or persistent
Important
This is an emergency condition requiring hospital care.