BOWEL OBSTRUCTION: IMAGING AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

Introduction: Bowel obstruction develops when the regular flow of intraluminal contents is obstructed. Obstruction can occur in the small or large bowel, which can be either functional or mechanical. In nearly 80% of cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction, the small bowel is involved. Ischemia, which aggravates up to 42% of intestinal obstructions, considerably raises bowel obstruction-related mortality. Twenty percent of admissions involving "surgical abdomens" are due to bowel obstructions. Radiology is crucial for confirming the diagnosis and determining the root of the problem. Emergency management of bowel obstruction often comprises aggressive fluid resuscitation, bowel decompression, analgesic and antiemetic therapy when clinically necessary, and early surgical consultation.

Aim of the Study: The purpose of this review is to familiarise radiology residents and other practitioners with the imaging findings indicative of intestinal blockage and to highlight problems necessitating emergency surgical intervention. The evaluation will concentrate on radiography and CT., which are the two most often utilized imaging techniques for suspected intestinal obstruction.

Methodology:The review is a comprehensive research of PUBMED since the year 1997 to 2021

Conclusion:Understanding the treatment of patients with small and large bowel obstruction is crucial for colon and rectal surgeons. For the majority of suspected intestinal blockages, computed tomography is typically the most suitable and accurate diagnostic imaging modality. Plain radiography and contrast imaging/fluoroscopy are two additional frequently used imaging modalities. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging are less often used imaging modalities. No matter the imaging modality employed, the interpretation of imaging should follow a methodical, systematic approach to guarantee diagnostic accuracy.

Keywords:Bowel obstruction, small bowel obstruction, large bowel obstruction, imaging, computed tomography, abdominal radiography, contrast enema, small bowel follow-through, Ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, emergency treatment, etc.