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Postoperative ileus — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateSurgery (post-operative, follow-up)Postoperative ileusUSMLE Step 3

A 58-year-old man has abdominal distention and absent flatus on postoperative day 2 after bowel surgery. He is afebrile. Abdominal x-ray shows diffuse bowel gas without transition point. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this patient's findings?

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Correct answer: C — Temporary impairment of bowel motility after surgery

Diffuse bowel dilation without transition point shortly after abdominal surgery suggests postoperative ileus.

Reference: American College of Surgeons perioperative care principles