Small bowel obstruction

• What is the most common cause of small bowel obstruction?


  Adhesions
• How may someone with a small bowel obstruction present?


  Diffuse, central abdo pain

  Nausea and vomiting

  Constipation

  Abdo distention

  Tinkling bowel sounds
• What is the first line imaging for suspected small bowel obstruction?


  Abdo x-ray
• What is shown on an abdo x-ray for small bowel obstruction?


  Distended small bowel loops
• What is the definitive investigation for small bowel obstruction?


  CT scan
• How is a small bowel obstruction managed?

  Nil by mouth

  IV fluids

  NG tube with free drainage