Study of Etiology and Outcomes of Operated Cases of Small Bowel Obstruction
Abstract
Helly Kothari and Rishi U Sachdeva
Background: Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is one of the most common surgical emergencies encountered in clinical practice and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It occurs due to mechanical or functional interruption in the normal passage of intestinal contents. The etiology of SBO varies widely and commonly includes postoperative adhesions, hernias, malignancies, volvulus, and inflammatory conditions. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are essential to prevent complications such as bowel ischemia, necrosis, perforation, and sepsis. Understanding the etiological factors and evaluating postoperative outcomes can help improve management strategies and reduce complications.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery at a tertiary care center over a period of 30 months from December 2022 to July 2025. A total of 50 patients diagnosed with small bowel obstruction who underwent surgical management were included in the study. Diagnosis was established based on clinical examination and radiological investigations including abdominal X-ray and CT scan, while definitive confirmation was made intraoperatively. Data regarding demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, imaging results, operative findings, surgical procedures performed, and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed.
Results: The majority of patients were above 60 years of age with a male predominance. The most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, and obstipation. Adhesions were identified as the most common cause of obstruction followed by hernias and malignancies. Surgical procedures performed included adhesiolysis, hernia repair, and bowel resection with anastomosis. Postoperative complications such as wound infection and prolonged hospital stay were observed in a minority of patients. Early surgical intervention was associated with improved outcomes and reduced complications.
Conclusion: Adhesions remain the most common etiological factor in surgically managed cases of small bowel obstruction. Early diagnosis, appropriate preoperative resuscitation, and timely surgical intervention significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce morbidity.