Methods for examining intestinal obstruction

Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
Updated on April 01, 2025
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The simplest test for intestinal obstruction is an upright abdominal X-ray, which can diagnose intestinal obstruction if dilated bowel loops and fluid levels are seen. Diagnosis can also be based on the patient's history and physical signs, such as nausea, vomiting, cessation of passing gas or stool, etc. Currently, abdominal CT can also diagnose intestinal obstruction, with the simplest method being the upright abdominal X-ray. Different types of intestinal obstruction require different treatments. For obstructions caused by tumors or volvulus, prompt surgical treatment is necessary. For general intestinal obstructions, such as those caused by adhesions or intestinal dysmotility, the preferred treatment includes fasting, hydration, anti-inflammatory medications, and other supportive measures. For elderly patients with obstipation-induced obstruction, enema treatment can be initiated first.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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How is intestinal obstruction treated?

The treatment methods for intestinal obstruction can be divided into non-surgical and surgical treatments in clinical practice. In our clinic, most cases of intestinal obstruction, such as adhesive obstruction or parasitic obstruction, can be alleviated through gastrointestinal decompression, enemas, and rapid expulsion of gas and stools, achieving the therapeutic goal. However, a small portion of intestinal obstructions do not respond to non-surgical treatments, and vital signs cannot be maintained; such cases require active surgical intervention.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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How to deal with intestinal obstruction?

Patients with intestinal obstruction commonly present with abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and cessation of passing gas or stool. Treatment for intestinal obstruction primarily includes conservative management and surgical intervention. Conservative treatment firstly involves gastrointestinal decompression, abstaining from food and drink, and, if necessary, the insertion of a gastric tube. The second step is to enhance anti-inflammatory measures to prevent infections within the abdominal cavity. The third step is proactive fluid replenishment to prevent disorders of water and electrolyte balance. Along with aggressive conservative treatment, the patient's overall condition should be monitored. If a pseudo-obstruction occurs, surgical treatment should be actively pursued.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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Enema method for intestinal obstruction

Enemas are an effective treatment measure in the management of intestinal obstruction. An enema involves a nurse using an enema bag to introduce about 500 milliliters of soapy water through a rounded-tip catheter into the rectum via the anus. Typically, the catheter is inserted about 30 centimeters deep. The purpose of injecting soapy water into the rectum is to stimulate intestinal peristalsis, leading to the expulsion of intestinal contents. During this process, it is important to avoid damage to the intestinal mucosa and consider the patient's tolerance. Generally, it is preferable to retain the soapy water for an extended period for better results.

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Written by Zhang Peng
General Surgery
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How to relieve intestinal obstruction

How to alleviate intestinal obstruction, which means how to treat intestinal obstruction. After the occurrence of intestinal obstruction, it is first important to clarify what intestinal obstruction is. Intestinal obstruction is characterized by cessation of gas and stool passage from the anus, and is usually accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and even fever. If intestinal obstruction occurs, firstly, do not eat or drink, and then carry out appropriate examinations to identify the cause of the obstruction. If it is adhesive obstruction, treatment generally includes fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, anti-inflammatory treatment, fluid replenishment, and enemas as symptomatic treatment measures, trying to keep the treatment as conservative as possible. If the obstruction is caused by a tumor, it is preferable to perform surgery to remove the obstruction based on a clear diagnosis, as this is the only effective treatment.

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home-news-image
Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
1min home-news-image

Methods for examining intestinal obstruction

The simplest test for intestinal obstruction is an upright abdominal X-ray, which can diagnose intestinal obstruction if dilated bowel loops and fluid levels are seen. Diagnosis can also be based on the patient's history and physical signs, such as nausea, vomiting, cessation of passing gas or stool, etc. Currently, abdominal CT can also diagnose intestinal obstruction, with the simplest method being the upright abdominal X-ray. Different types of intestinal obstruction require different treatments. For obstructions caused by tumors or volvulus, prompt surgical treatment is necessary. For general intestinal obstructions, such as those caused by adhesions or intestinal dysmotility, the preferred treatment includes fasting, hydration, anti-inflammatory medications, and other supportive measures. For elderly patients with obstipation-induced obstruction, enema treatment can be initiated first.