Intestinal obstruction due to phytobezoars: An update

Abstract

The term bezoar refers to an intraluminal mass in the gastrointestinal system caused by the accumulation of indigestible ingested materials, such as vegetables, fruits, and hair. Bezoars are responsible for 0.4%-4% of cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction. The clinical findings of bezoar-induced ileus do not differ from those of mechanical intestinal obstruction due to other causes. The appearance and localization of bezoars can be established with various imaging methods. Treatment of choice depends on the localization of the bezoar which makes the clinical findings.

Keywords: Ileus; Intestinal obstruction; Phytobezoar.

Figure 1

Intraluminal round bezoar and mottled gas pattern were seen in the jejenum segment. Wall thickening due to inflammation were seen at the obstruction site (arrow).

Figure 2

A 62-year-old male patient. Multiple small bowel bezoars which have round or irregular shape and mottled gas pattern were detected on abdominal computed tomography (A and B; arrows). Intraoperative finding (C); an irregular shaped bezoar which caused intestinal obstruction was removed via enterotomy, dilated proximal segments and non-dilated distal segments are visible.