Acute Intestinal Obstruction in Adults: Its Management and Outcome at Trihms, Naharlagun
Author(s): Narayan Das*, Subu Sumpi and Rejum Ronya
Abstract
Background/Aims: Intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency and because of its serious nature, it demands
early diagnosis and speedy relief. Intestinal obstruction is responsible for approximately 20% of surgical admissions of
acute abdominal conditions. The objective of the study is to estimate the incidence of clinical presentation, etiology,
management and outcome of acute intestinal obstruction in adults at TRIHMS, Naharlagun.
Materials and methods: This was a prospective descriptive study of 41 patients presenting with symptoms and signs of acute
intestinal obstruction in the department of Surgery at TRIHMS, Naharlagun for a period of 10 months from 01-10-2020 to
31-07-2021. The diagnosis of acute intestinal obstruction was based on clinical history, physical findings, biochemical and
radiological investigations. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. The treatment strategy was
planned ranging from conservative treatment to emergency laparotomy after resuscitation and rehydration of the patient.
Causes of obstruction, site of obstruction, and the operative procedure were recorded. Post-operative complications,
mortality and outcome were noted.
Results: Pain abdomen was the most common presenting symptom (95.12%) followed by vomiting (75.60%). The
commonest age group was from 18 years to 27 years (24.39%). Abdominal adhesions and bands was the most common
cause. Bowel resection and anastomosis was the commonest surgical procedure done in adults at TRIHMS.
Conclusion: Acute intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency and because of its serious nature, its demands
early diagnosis and speedy relief. Earlier diagnosis and timely intervention are associated with excellent outcome.