Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO)

A small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a blockage in the small intestine that prevents food, fluids, and gas from moving through normally. This condition affects the digestive system, specifically the small intestine, which is responsible for absorbing nutrients from food. When the bowel is blocked, it can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. The blockage can be caused by scar tissue, hernias, or tumors. Because the contents cannot pass through, the bowel may become swollen and painful, which can lead to serious complications if untreated. The main health impact is the disruption of digestion and potential damage to the bowel tissue.

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a clinical syndrome characterized by a mechanical or functional blockage of the small intestine that impairs the normal passage of intestinal contents. The core pathology involves luminal obstruction, commonly caused by adhesions from prior surgery, hernias, or tumors. This leads to proximal bowel dilation, increased intraluminal pressure, and impaired absorption and secretion. Clinically, SBO presents with colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal distension, and obstipation. It is a surgical emergency if complicated by bowel ischemia or perforation. Early recognition and differentiation from large bowel obstruction are critical for management and prognosis.