Early postoperative intestinal obstruction and its management

Objective To explore the appropriate strategy for the treatment of early postoperative intestinal obstruction.Methods 10 cases of early postoperative intestinal obstruction were retrospectively analysed mainly on clinical characteristics and treatments.Results Intestinal obstruction occurred within the first week after operation in all the 10 cases(9 were diagnosed as adhesive obstruction).7 cases achieved remission in 3～30 days(mean 10.3 days) by conservative treatment.1 case underwent operation in 48 hours after the occurrence of intestinal obstruction.Extensive adhesion and severe inflammation of the ileocecal bowel wall was observed during laparotomy.Partial ileocolectomy was performed and early postoperative intestinal obstruction occurred on second session followed by conservative therapy for 18 days before total recovery.The other 2 cases underwent laparotomy on the 5 th and 6 th week after obstruction,respectively and found no extensive intraperitoneal adhesion or inflammation.These two patients recovered uneventfully after exploration.Conclusion 4～6 weeks conservative treatment is necessary for all patients with early postoperative intestinal adhesive obstruction before obstruction relieving operation is considered.This protocol can prevent unnecessary operation and reduce postoperative complications.