Final answer:
The most common cause of SBO in patients with a history of abdominal surgery is adhesions. Adhesions are abnormal bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal tissues and organs after surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common cause of SBO (small bowel obstruction) in patients with a history of abdominal surgery is adhesions. Adhesions are abnormal bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal tissues and organs after surgery. These adhesions can cause the intestines to become twisted or blocked, leading to small bowel obstruction.
For example, during abdominal surgery, the surgical incision can cause inflammation, and during the healing process, scar tissue may form. This scar tissue can then adhere to nearby organs or tissues, creating bands that can twist or compress the intestines.
Hernias, tumors, and inflammatory bowel disease can also cause SBO in some cases, but adhesions are the most common cause.