Bowel Obstruction & Adhesions

Vomiting, distension, no flatus — causes and treatment

Do not “wait it out at home” when obstruction features appear.

Bowel obstruction presents with vomiting, bloating, crampy or continuous pain, and inability to pass gas or stool. Adhesions after prior surgery, hernia incarceration, and tumor are common causes. Some adhesive small-bowel obstructions can be observed safely with fluids and nasogastric decompression when there is no strangulation. Hernia incarceration, peritonitis, closed-loop signs, or ischemic features push toward prompt surgery. CT helps define the transition point and ischemia clues — but clinical decline overrides a “reassuring” early scan. Home waiting with progressive vomiting and distension is unsafe.