Final answer:
Ileus is the correct answer as it is characterized by distended, air-filled loops of the small bowel, often seen after abdominal surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition which is demonstrated radiographically as distended, air-filled loops of the small bowel is called an ileus. An ileus is a temporary and often partial paralysis of a portion of the intestines that typically occurs after an abdominal surgery. Symptoms of ileus include abdominal bloating, pain, vomiting, constipation, and lack of bowel movements or passing gas. It is important to differentiate this condition from others on the list as they have different pathophysiological bases and clinical presentations. For example:
- Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.
- Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon that usually does not manifest as distended loops of bowel on radiographs.
- Pneumoperitoneum represents the presence of air within the peritoneal cavity and is typically a surgical emergency.
Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is d. Ileus.