Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Common Causes
  • Exploring Rare Triggers
  • Types of Small Bowel Obstruction

What Causes Small Bowel Obstruction? Unraveling the Mystery

What Causes Small Bowel Obstruction? Unraveling the Mystery

The Big Picture

Small bowel obstruction is a common and serious condition where the normal movement of food and liquids through the intestines is blocked. Understanding its causes can be key to managing or preventing it.
Contents
  • Common Causes
  • Exploring Rare Triggers
  • Types of Small Bowel Obstruction

Common Causes

In developed countries, adhesions from previous surgeries are the leading cause of small bowel obstruction. Hernias and tumors also play significant roles in causing blockage. Rare causes include Crohn's disease, gallstones, and intussusception, where part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part.

Exploring Rare Triggers

Besides the common causes, small bowel obstruction can also result from unusual conditions. Volvulus, a twisting of the intestine, and bezoars, indigestible masses, are rare but possible culprits. Even certain medications and previous radiation therapy can lead to strictures, narrowing the bowel.
A common and serious condition where the normal movement of food and liquids through the intestines is blocked. Causes include adhesions, hernias, tumors, and rare triggers like Crohn's disease and volvulus.

Types of Small Bowel Obstruction

Obstructions can be classified as partial or complete, and acute or chronic. Complete obstructions often lead to complications like ischemia, where blood supply is cut off, leading to tissue death. Understanding these types helps in determining the urgency and type of treatment needed.

FAQs

What is the main cause of small bowel obstruction?

Adhesions from previous surgeries are the main cause.

Can tumors cause bowel obstruction?

Yes, tumors can block the intestines, causing obstruction.

What are rare causes of small bowel obstruction?

Rare causes include volvulus, bezoars, and certain medications.

Is small bowel obstruction always complete?

No, it can be partial or complete.

Can small bowel obstruction recur?

Yes, especially if caused by adhesions.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the causes of small bowel obstruction can guide effective management and prevention.
Curious about what might cause your symptoms? Talk with Doctronic today.
Additional References
  1. Drożdż W, Budzyński P. Change in mechanical bowel obstruction demographic and etiological patterns during the past century: observations from one health care institution. Arch Surg 2012; 147:175.
  2. Sikirica V, Bapat B, Candrilli SD, et al. The inpatient burden of abdominal and gynecological adhesiolysis in the US. BMC Surg 2011; 11:13.
  3. Miller G, Boman J, Shrier I, Gordon PH. Natural history of patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction. Br J Surg 2000; 87:1240.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.