Intestinal Obstruction Classification Quiz

Characteristics of Obstruction

• Simple mechanical obstruction is characterized by a physical blockage that obstructs the flow of intestinal contents.

Consequences of Strangulation Obstruction

• If strangulation obstruction is not relieved within 6 hours, it can lead to ischemia and gangrene of the bowel wall.

Causes of Paralytic Ileus

• Paralytic ileus is caused by a failure of the intestinal muscle to function, leading to a lack of peristalsis.

Characteristics of High Small Bowel Obstruction

• High small bowel obstruction is characterized by more severe vomiting and a shorter duration of symptoms compared to low small bowel obstruction.

Acute vs Chronic Obstruction

• Acute obstruction is distinguished from chronic obstruction by the sudden onset of symptoms, whereas chronic obstruction develops gradually over time.

Fecal Impaction

• Fecal impaction refers to a condition where a narrowed lumen becomes totally occluded by dry stools.

Neonatal Obstruction

• In neonates, a common cause of obstruction is intestinal atresia or stenosis.

Colon Obstruction

• The main cause of distension in colon obstruction is the accumulation of gas and fluid.

Consequences of Unrelieved Strangulation

• If unrelieved, strangulation can lead to bowel ischemia, gangrene, and perforation.

Symptoms of Acute Mechanical Obstruction

• The first symptom of acute mechanical obstruction is usually cramping abdominal pain.

Test your knowledge of the classification of intestinal obstruction, including simple mechanical obstruction and strangulation obstruction. Learn about the different types of blockages and their characteristic symptoms.