Large bowel obstruction (intestine blockage)

About Large bowel obstruction (intestine blockage)

Partial or complete blockage in the large intestine (colon) that prevents gas, fluids, or solids from moving through the intestines normally. Causes of a large bowel obstruction include: cancer, hernias, volvulus, strictures, severe constipation, colonic atresia or inflammatory bowel disease. This disorder is most often seen in older patients and can be serious if not promptly untreated.

Symptoms

Abdominal fullness, distention, pain and cramping, vomiting, failure to pass gas or stool (constipation), diarrhea.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Establishing the diagnosis of large bowel obstruction typically requires imaging studies, such as a CT scan which can determine the location, severity and cause of the obstruction.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment depends on the cause of the obstruction. Decompression of the intestines by inserting a tube into the stomach through the nose will help relieve symptoms and resolve some obstructions. Severe obstructions require surgery to relieve the obstruction and to treat the underlying cause.

Medical specialties

General Surgery · Pediatric Surgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Large bowel obstruction (intestine blockage).