Large bowel obstruction: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which of the following is the most common cause of large bowel obstruction?
A. Volvulus
B. Strictures
C. Cancer
D. Surgery
E. Diverticulitis
Answer and topic summary
The answer is C. Cancer
Bowel obstruction occurs when the normal flow of intestinal contents is interrupted or impaired by a mechanical cause. The most common cause of 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.
View blueprint lesson
Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint GI and Nutrition ⇒ ⇒
Also covered as part of the General Surgery EOR, Family Medicine EOR, and Emergency Medicine EOR topic lists
