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Partial small-bowel obstruction caused by adhesions usually is managed initially by decompressing the gastrointestinal tract with a nasogastric (NG) tube, administering intravenous fluids, prohibiting oral intake, and waiting for spontaneous resolution. Researchers in Taiwan examined a more proactive approach in 128 patients with partial small-bowel obstructions presumed to be caused by adhesions from previous abdominal surgery.
Patients were randomized to two groups: One group received standard treatment with NG tube decompression, IV fluids, and nothing by mouth. The other group received similar standard treatment plus an oral regimen, given thrice daily, that consisted of magnesium oxide to stimulate bowel movement, simethicone to acceler…