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Closed-loop small bowel obstruction — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardGI/Abdominal emergenciesClosed-loop small bowel obstructionRCPSC EM

A 61-year-old has crampy abdominal pain, vomiting and obstipation after prior laparotomy. CT shows dilated small bowel, mesenteric swirl, reduced bowel-wall enhancement and free fluid. What is the most appropriate next step?

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

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Correct answer: A — Urgent surgical consultation, resuscitation, nasogastric decompression and antibiotics

Closed-loop obstruction with ischaemic CT features requires urgent surgical management, resuscitation and bowel decompression.

Reference: Canadian emergency surgery bowel obstruction practice