Question

Post-op abd pain, bloating, no flatulence, hypoactive bowel sounds, tympany on percussion

A) Adhesive bowel obstruction
B) SBO (small bowel obstruction)
C) Ileus
D) Large bowel obstruction

Answer 1

Postoperative abdominal pain, bloating, hypoactive bowel sounds, and tympany on percussion indicate ileus.

Step-by-step explanation:

Clinical Focus

Postoperative abdominal pain, bloating, hypoactive bowel sounds, and tympany on percussion can be indicative of a condition called ileus. Ileus is a temporary dysfunction of the intestines that can occur after surgery. It is characterized by a lack of movement and tone in the bowel, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and hypoactive bowel sounds.

In contrast, small bowel obstruction (SBO) and large bowel obstruction typically present with more severe symptoms, such as vomiting, abdominal distension, and high-pitched bowel sounds. Adhesive bowel obstruction, caused by scar tissue formation after surgery, can also lead to symptoms similar to SBO or large bowel obstruction.

Based on the given symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, hypoactive bowel sounds, and tympany on percussion, the most likely diagnosis is ileus.