Paralytic ileus (bowel paralysis)

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Description

Paralytic ileus is a term used to obstruction of the intestine due to paralysis of the intestinal muscles. The paralysis does not need to be complete to cause ileus, but the intestinal muscles must be so inactive that it prevents the passage of food and leads to a functional blockage of the intestine.

Paralytic ileus is characterized by abdominal tenderness and distension, absence of bowel sounds, lack of flatus, and nausea and vomiting. There may be fever, decreased urinary output, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and respiratory distress. Loss of fluids and electrolytes may be extreme, and, unless they are replaced, the condition may lead to hemoconcentration, hypovolemia, renal insufficiency, shock, and death.

Causes and Risk factors

Ileus is most often associated with an infection of the peritoneum or other intra-abdominal infections such as appendicitis. It is one of the major causes of bowel obstruction in infants and children. Another common cause of ileus is a disruption or reduction of the blood supply to the abdomen. Handling the bowel during abdominal surgery can also cause peristalsis to stop, so people who have had abdominal surgery are more likely to experience ileus.

Paralytic ileus is a common side effect of some types of surgery, in these cases it is commonly called postsurgical ileus. It can also result from certain drugs and from various injuries and illnesses( acute pancreatitis). Paralytic ileus causes constipation and bloating. On listening to the abdomen with a stethoscope, no bowel sounds are heard because the bowel is inactive.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Treatment of paralytic ileus begins with seeking medical care from the health care provider, who will likely admit ythe pacient to the hospital for treatment. Treatment usually involves placing a tube through the nose or stomach to alleviate the symptoms. ...