Obstruction
Bowel obstruction is an obstruction of the bowel, or small and large intestine that prevents normal movement of intestinal products. Bowel obstruction is a medical emergency that needs to be fixed surgically. It can be caused either by physical blockage, or when the bowel stops moving due to paralysis. Obstructions of the small intestine include adhesions due to surgery, hernia (weakness in the abdominal wall allowing tissue protrusion), bowel twisting, and ischemia (lack of oxygen). Obstructions of the large intestine can be caused by cancer, hernia, impaction, and bowel twisting.
The signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction can include abdominal pain and distention, vomiting, and constipation. Small intestinal pain is usually irregular in nature and feels like a cramp. Large intestinal pain is felt low in the abdomen and cramping will last longer. X-ray, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, or blood testing can identify bowel obstruction. Some bowel obstructions can resolve on their own, if they do not then surgery is necessary. It is also necessary to attempt to correct any dehydration that may accompany the obstruction. If treated promptly bowel obstructions have a good prognosis for recovery.
References:
http://www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic66.htm
http://www.fpnotebook.com/SUR61.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowel_obstruction