Treatment:

The objective of treatment is to decompress the intestine with suction, using a nasogastric (NG) tube inserted into the stomach or intestine. This will relieve abdominal distention and vomiting.

Surgery to relieve the obstruction may be necessary if decompression by NG tube does not relieve the symptoms, or if tissue death is suspected.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies with the cause of the obstruction.

Complications:

• Infection
• Gangrene of the bowel
• Perforation (hole) in the intestine

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if persistent abdominal distention develops and you are unable to pass stool or gas, or if other symptoms of intestinal obstruction develop.