Bowel obstruction: a narrative review for all physicians

Fausto Catena, Belinda De Simone, Federico Coccolini, Salomone Di Saverio, Massimo Sartelli, Luca Ansaloni, Fausto Catena, Belinda De Simone, Federico Coccolini, Salomone Di Saverio, Massimo Sartelli, Luca Ansaloni

Abstract

Small and large bowel obstructions are responsible for approximately 15% of hospital admissions for acute abdominal pain in the USA and ~ 20% of cases needing acute surgical care. Starting from the analysis of a common clinical problem, we want to guide primary care physicians in the initial management of a patient presenting with acute abdominal pain associated with intestinal obstruction.

Keywords: Bowel obstructions; Emergency surgery; Primary care physician education; WSES guidelines.

Conflict of interest statement

Not applicableNot applicableThe authors declare that they have no competing interests.Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Management strategy of bowel obstruction (for about 90% of causes)
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
ASBO caused by single band adhesion: CT scan evidence

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