Bowel Obstruction

Suspect obstruction in pts with prior abdominal surgery or radiation therapy
  • Can occur from occult cancers

Auscultation: hyperactive bowel sounds with “tinkles” or “rushes”

Dx:  Abdominal XR (plain film, “KUB”) both supine & upright
  • dilated bowel loops with air-fluid levels
  • “free air” under diaphragm on upright = perforated bowel

See posting Abdominal Pain – 3.