A prospective study on acute intestinal obstruction in adults: Epidemiology, management, and outcomes

Abstract

Background: Acute intestinal obstruction (AIO) is a common surgical emergency that can be caused by various etiologies. This study was undertaken to evaluate the epidemiology, clinical features, management strategies, and outcomes of AIO in adults, aiming to identify the predominant causes and associated complications. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted over one year (November 2017 to October 2018) at the Department of General Surgery, Sree Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences. A total of 30 adult patients diagnosed with AIO and treated surgically were included. Demographic data, clinical history, symptoms, and physical findings were documented. Laboratory investigations and radiological imaging, including erect abdominal X-ray, were performed for diagnosis. Surgical procedures were determined based on etiology, and postoperative monitoring was carried out for complications. Results: The study revealed a male predominance (63.3%), with the highest incidence in patients aged