Obstipation and presence of high-grade obstruction or free fluid on computed tomography were associated with need for surgery after a trial of conservative management.
Small bowel obstruction most commonly occurs due to adhesions following abdominal surgery. While most cases resolve with nonoperative management, some require surgery. Delaying surgery increases hospital length of stay and mortality, especially in elderly patients. Identifying patients at higher risk for requiring surgical correction early may improve outcomes.
Researchers conducted a prospective observational study of 202 patients with presumed adhesive small bowel obstruction at three academic tertiary care hospitals from 2011 to 2013. Patients with immediate need for surgery (strangulation, bowel infraction, or perforation on computed tomography [CT]) or nonadhesive obstruction (e.g., small bowel tumor or Crohn disease) were excluded. All…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair
DisclosuresConsultant / Advisory boardVerathon, Inc. (Scientific Advisory Board Member)
Editorial boardsScientific American Emergency Medicine; Manual of Emergency Airway Management (Editor-in-Chief)
Leadership positions in professional societiesPrograms Subcommittee Chair for the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine–Residency and Fellowship Fair