Large Bowel Obstruction: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
A 66-year-old patient presents with abdominal distention and discomfort. On examination, the patient has absent bowel sounds and a firm, distended abdomen. Imaging reveals a large bowel obstruction. What is the most likely cause of the obstruction in this patient?
A. Inflammatory bowel disease
B. Volvulus
C. Colorectal cancer
D. Strictures
E. Clostridium difficle
Answer and topic summary
The answer is C. Colorectal cancer
Bowel obstruction occurs when the normal flow of intestinal contents is interrupted or impaired by a mechanical cause. The most common cause of a large bowel obstruction is cancer. Other causes include volvulus, strictures, and inflammatory bowel disease. Clinical features include changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, distention, obstipation, etc. Management includes adequate fluid resuscitation, decompression with a nasogastric tube, and surgical consultation for definitive management. If there is a concern for perforation, ischemia, or peritonitis, the patient will need to be sent to the OR as soon as possible.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint GI and Nutrition ⇒ ⇒
