Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
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.
Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
- Hero figure: bowel obstruction and adhesions as an educational overview.
- Related figures cover causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment pathways.
Educational figures
Tap a figure to enlarge. These English illustrations mirror the Turkish hub gallery for this condition.
Causes Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Symptoms Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Treatment Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Adhesions Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Adhesions
Common after prior abdominal surgery.
Hernia risk
Incarceration can progress to strangulation.
Imaging
CT helps define transition point and ischemia signs.
Selective non-op care
Only when safe monitoring is possible.
What to know
- Key note inside
Urgent features
Severe continuous pain, fever/tachycardia, board-like abdomen — seek emergency care. Rising lactate, CT ischemia/closed-loop, free fluid, or clinical decline also change the plan.
Adhesive SBO
Not every adhesive obstruction needs immediate operation. A monitored conservative window can succeed when strangulation is absent.
- Key note inside
Hernia and peritonitis
Incarcerated hernia or peritonitis pushes toward prompt surgery rather than prolonged observation.
What hospital care includes
IV fluids, electrolyte correction, nasogastric decompression when indicated, serial exams, and timely imaging.
After resolution
Diet advances stepwise. Recurrent adhesive episodes may later raise elective strategies — timing is individualized.
What happens next
Causes — explained for shared decision-making
- 1
Causes of Bowel Obstruction
Causes — explained for shared decision-making
Read this chapter - 2
Bowel Obstruction Symptoms
What patients notice — and which warning signs need urgent care
Read this chapter - 3
Bowel Obstruction Treatment
How treatment options are matched to risk, stage, and goals
Read this chapter - 4
Adhesions and Bowel Obstruction
Adhesions — explained for shared decision-making
Read this chapter - 5
Obstructing Colon Cancer
Tumor blockage: stent, resection, or stoma
Read this chapter - 6
Bowel Obstruction Diagnosis
Exam and imaging
Read this chapter
Appointment / info
This can be an emergency — use hospital care if symptoms are active. Bring prior operative history when you can.
Educational information only; not a substitute for emergency care.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · English patient-education hub.