Complete ileal transection: A rare complication of adhesive bowel disease—A case report

Abstract

Highlights Post-operative adhesions are common after abdomino-pelvic surgery. Adhesions have been named the commonest cause of intestinal obstruction. Various risk factors for formation of adhesions. Halstedian principles to be followed to minimize risk of post-operative adhesions.

Adhesive small bowel obstruction in a virgin abdomen in an elderly: a case report

“…15 Adhesions in patients with a virgin abdomen can be congenital or secondary to intraabdominal infections such as tuberculosis. 1,11 However, in our case there was no history suggestive of previous intra-abdominal infections or any surgical intervention.…”

“…[13][14][15] Adhesions may be congenital or acquired (postinflammatory or post-operative). 1,7,8,15 Approximately 85% of adhesive SBOs are caused by postoperative adhesions, 10% are caused by peritonitis, and 5% have unknown or congenital etiologies. 5 Congenital adhesions are present from birth as embryological anomaly in the development of the peritoneal cavity (vitellointestinal bands, adhesions seen across the lesser sac).…”

“…Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a condition where there is interruption of forward flow of intestinal contents. 1 Bowel obstruction is one of the most common surgical emergencies encountered in general surgery units and it continues to be a major cause of morbidity and financial expenditure. 2 SBO etiology in developed countries includes adhesions (74%), Crohn's disease (7%), neoplasia (5%), hernia (2%), radiation (1%), and miscellaneous (11%).…”

“…[6][7][8][9] It was first described by Hippocrates and first treatment was performed by Praxagoras in 350 BC. 1 First adhesions were identified at post-mortem of a patient in 1836. 1 The term virgin abdomen was coined before widespread use of computed tomography, which now elucidates many SBO etiologies.…”

“…1 First adhesions were identified at post-mortem of a patient in 1836. 1 The term virgin abdomen was coined before widespread use of computed tomography, which now elucidates many SBO etiologies. 10 Although adhesions account for more than 70% of SBO, they are thought to be less likely etiologies in patients without previous abdominal surgery, where a hernia or malignancy is frequently believed to be the underlying cause.…”