Small bowel obstruction - adhesions

Case contributed by Michael P Hartung
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting.

Patient Data

Age: 40 years
Gender: Male

Diffuse dilation of small bowel with a relatively gradual transition point in the right lower quadrant characterised by mild angulation of small bowel loops. Distal small bowel decompressed with some fecalized contents. Colon decompressed.

Case Discussion

Typical findings of small bowel obstruction due to adhesive bands. Carefully run the small bowel to the transition point in the right lower quadrant, which is relatively subtle but has some angulation indicating adhesive disease is the most likely cause.

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