A Retrospective Study of Strangulation in Acute Intestinal Obstruction

Abstract

Acute intestinal obstruction (AIO) is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires timely diagnosis and intervention. Among the various causes of AIO, strangulation of the intestine represents one of the most serious forms due to compromised blood flow, leading to ischemia and necrosis of the bowel. This retrospective study aims to evaluate the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management outcomes of patients with strangulated AIO. The study was conducted over a period of
one year at a tertiary care hospital, involving patients diagnosed with acute intestinal obstruction. Detailed data was collected on patient demographics, clinical features, imaging findings, surgical interventions, and post-operative outcomes. The findings indicated that strangulation commonly presented with signs of bowel ischemia, including severe abdominal pain, distention, vomiting, and signs of peritonitis. The majority of patients underwent emergency surgery, with bowel resection being the most common procedure performed. Imaging modalities, particularly contrast-enhanced CT scans, played a crucial role in diagnosing the strangulation and identifying the site of obstruction. Early intervention was associated with significantly improved survival rates, whereas delayed
treatment resulted in higher morbidity and mortality due to complications such as sepsis and multi organ failure. This study emphasizes the critical role of rapid diagnosis and timely surgical intervention in managing strangulated intestinal obstruction. It highlights the importance of
early recognition of strangulation signs in AIO, urging clinicians to remain vigilant. The findings suggest that increased awareness, early imaging, and prompt surgery significantly reduce adverse outcomes. By contributing to the understanding of strangulation in AIO, this research offers valuable insights into its management, ultimately paving the way for improved clinical outcomes in patients facing this life-threatening condition.