Intestinal Obstruction

Abstract

A delay of more than 24 hours in institution of appropriate treatment of intestinal obstruction doubles the mortality rate. Early roentgenologic evaluation whenever intestinal obstruction is suspected would lessen this delay. The authors favor gastric decompression rather than use of the long intestinal tube, since the latter also contributes to delay and gives a false sense of security. Although time is of the essence in institution of therapy, surgical intervention without adequate preparation of the patient is just as dangerous as delay.