Introduction

 

Intestinal obstruction may be classified into two types.

 

Dynamic — where peristalsis is working against a mechanical obstruction. The obstructing lesion may be:

intraluminal, for example impacted faeces, foreign bodies,bezoar, gallstones;

intramural, for example malignant or inflammatory strictures;

extramural, for example intraperitoneal bands and adhesions, hernias, volvulus or intussusception.

Adynamic — this may occur in two forms. Peristalsis may be absent (e.g. paralytic ileus) or it may be present in a non-propulsive form (e.g. mesenteric vascular occlusion or

    pseudo-obstruction). In both types a mechanical element is absent.