Intestinal obstruction can affect both the small and large intestine. In this case, the intestinal contents can no longer be transported further – there is a blockage of the intestinal contents at narrow points (mechanical ileus) or the movement of the intestines comes to a standstill (paralytic ileus). Intestinal obstruction is also called ileus, and intestinal stricture is called stenosis or obstruction. Intestinal stenosis is an incomplete blockage, while intestinal obstruction is a complete blockage of the normal passage of intestinal contents. Usually, the term ileus (from the Greek: twisting, contortion) is equated with intestinal obstruction. Ileus is one of the most dangerous diseases of the abdomen.
What is intestinal obstruction?
Intestinal obstruction can affect both the small and large intestines. When an intestinal obstruction is present, the contents of the intestine are no longer transported. There is congestion of intestinal contents at narrow points (mechanical ileus) or intestinal movement stops (paralytic ileus).
As a result, germs or even intestinal contents can pass through the intestinal wall and lead to serious infections in the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is also known as inflammation of the peritoneum and is responsible for the development of acute abdomen (acute abdomen).
What are the symptoms of intestinal obstruction?
The abdomen appears distended and is painful to the slightest pressure. The natural response is defensive tension (peritonism) of the abdomen. The defensive tension may be limited to a specific region at first. As the condition progresses, it is extended over the entire abdomen. The abdomen may even appear board hard on palpation.
The general condition of the affected person deteriorates progressively. High fever around 39°C, cold sweats, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, physical dehydration (exsiccosis) and collapse can then dominate the clinical picture. Due to an existing life-threatening situation, rapid surgical intervention is necessary. Depending on the cause, a distinction is made between mechanical and paralytic (paralytic) bowel obstruction.