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Review
. 2023 Dec 29;37(6):376-380.
doi: 10.1055/s-0043-1777452. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Large Bowel Obstruction: Etiologies, Diagnosis, and Management

Kevin A Chen  1 , Muneera R Kapadia  1
Affiliations
Review

Large Bowel Obstruction: Etiologies, Diagnosis, and Management

Kevin A Chen et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. .

Abstract

Large bowel obstructions (LBOs) often require urgent surgical intervention. Diagnosis relies on astute history and physical examination, as well as imaging with computed tomography (CT) scan for stable patients. Because of the high mortality associated with colonic perforation in patients with LBOs, decisive surgical decision-making is needed for optimal outcomes. This review seeks to provide an overview of the etiologies of LBO, diagnosis, and general management principles, as well as specific management for the most common etiologies, including colorectal cancer and strictures.

Keywords: colonic stent; colorectal cancer; large bowel obstruction.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest None declared.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Computed tomography (CT) scan showing large bowel obstruction with dilated transverse colon and transition point in descending colon. ( A ) Axial views with a circle around the obstructing mass. ( B ) Sagittal views with a circle around the transition point. ( C ) Coronal views with a circle around the transition point.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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