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Adhesive small bowel obstruction — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardSurgery (Post-operative / Follow-up)Adhesive small bowel obstructionUSMLE Step 3

A 64-year-old woman with prior hysterectomy has crampy abdominal pain, vomiting, distention, and obstipation. CT shows dilated small bowel with a transition point but no pneumatosis or free air. She is stable. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Admit for bowel rest, nasogastric decompression, and serial examinations

Stable adhesive SBO without ischemia or perforation is initially managed nonoperatively with close monitoring.

Reference: Current US clinical practice standards and USMLE Step 3 content outline, https://www.usmle.org/exam-resources/step-3-materials