Post Surgery Ileus

An ileus is a blockage of the intestines (also called the bowel). The ileus prevents the movement of food, fluid, and gas through the intestines. The blockage is due to the lack of movement of the intestinal muscles. The intestinal tract is made up of small bowel and large bowel. The small bowel has three parts: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. The large bowel has four parts: the ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid colon. An ileus can occur anywhere in the intestinal tract. An ileus may be caused by any type of surgery, trauma, or pain medicines (such as morphine and oxycodone). A lack of activity also may cause an ileus. A chemical reaction occurs in your body causing any part of your intestines to stop working as they should. These are the signs and symptoms of an ileus. •Nausea and vomiting •Stomach cramps •Bloating •Lack of bowel movements and gas Your medical provider should properly preforms the following test post surgery: •Physical exam •Daily x-rays of stomach and intestines •Imaging studies like a CT scan with liquid contrast so the doctors can see your GI tract clearly in the CT scan. •Blood tests If you or a family member has suffered bowel injury after surgery, call my office and Find Out What Happened. 1-888-760-7339