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How would an iatrogenic bowel perforation present?

User Gelu
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Final answer:

An iatrogenic bowel perforation presents with severe abdominal pain, peritonitis, nausea, and fever. It is a critical condition requiring immediate medical attention involving a CT scan for diagnosis, emergency surgery, and intensive antibiotic treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Iatrogenic Bowel Perforation Presentation

An iatrogenic bowel perforation is a hole that occurs in the bowel wall as a result of medical intervention. This critical condition can manifest through various symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, signs of peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum), nausea, fever, and a sudden change in vital signs indicating septic shock. Additional indications include lack of appetite, bloating, and the possibility of watery diarrhea. A bowel perforation allows digestive contents to leak into the sterile peritoneal cavity, resulting in chemical and possibly bacterial peritonitis, which can lead to severe septicemia and potentially be fatal if not promptly treated.

Medical imaging, typically a CT scan, is often used for diagnosis, and treatment usually involves emergency surgery paired with intensive antibiotic therapy. The urgency and severity of the situation may necessitate complete bowel rest and hospitalization to prevent further complications or death.

User Greg Soltis
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Final answer:

An iatrogenic bowel perforation refers to the accidental perforation or rupture of the bowel that occurs as a result of medical treatment or intervention. It can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, watery diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Severe cases may lead to complications like septicemia and shock, requiring immediate medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

An iatrogenic bowel perforation refers to the accidental perforation or rupture of the bowel that occurs as a result of medical treatment or intervention. It can happen during procedures such as colonoscopy, surgery, or other medical interventions involving the gastrointestinal tract. The presentation of an iatrogenic bowel perforation may vary depending on the severity and location of the perforation.

Some common signs and symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Watery diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration

In severe cases, there may be additional complications such as septicemia, shock, or even death. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an iatrogenic bowel perforation.

User Josh Ribakoff
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