Article Text
Short report
Predictive value of signs and symptoms for small bowel obstruction in patients with prior surgery
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of various signs and symptoms for small bowel obstruction (SBO) in patients with prior abdominal surgery.
Methods This was a secondary analysis of a previously reported prospective study of ultrasonography for SBO. Patients with prior abdominal surgery were identified and presenting signs and symptoms were compared to the CT diagnosis of SBO.
Results No signs or symptoms were predictive of SBO.
Conclusion No constellation of signs and symptoms can be used to reliably exclude a SBO in patients with prior abdominal surgery.
- Abdomen-non trauma
- cardiac care
- diagnosis
- clinical assessment