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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2003; 16(3): 189-198
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-42902
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Small Bowel Obstruction and Adhesions

David E. Beck
  • Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana
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Publication History

Publication Date:
10 October 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) remains a major surgical condition, and its management consumes a significant portion of our health care efforts. Adhesions are the most common cause of SBO in developed societies. Most small bowel obstructions can be managed with nonoperative means such as bowel rest and intravenous hydration. Operative treatment is indicated to relieve obstructions that fail to resolve with conservative measures, and involves lysis of adhesions or resections. New methods to prevent obstruction are under development.

KEYWORDS

Small bowel obstruction - adhesions - lysis of adhesions

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