Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2012; 25(04): 200-203
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1329533
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Management of Colonic Obstruction: A Review

Rebecca S. Sawai
1   Department of General Surgery, Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
21 November 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Large bowel obstruction is a common problem with many different causes, the most common being colorectal adenocarcinoma, extracolonic adenocarcinoma, diverticular disease, volvulus, and inflammatory bowel disease. The nature of the obstruction can influence the best management. Historically, treatment of obstruction consisted of surgical removal of the obstruction if possible and decompression of the bowel with an ostomy. Other strategies for managing obstruction have evolved as alternatives to stomas, including primary resection with anastomosis and endoscopic stent placement. The choice of treatment can therefore be tailored to the individual patient with good success.