Last updated: 02/17/2009

To diagnose an intestinal obstruction, the physician first gives a physical examination to determine the severity of the patient's condition. The abdomen is examined for evidence of scars, hernias, distension, or pain. The patient's medical...

history is also taken, as certain factors increase a person's risk of developing a bowel obstruction (including previous surgery, older age, and a history of constipation). A series of x rays may be taken of the abdomen, as a definitive diagnosis of obstruction can be made by x ray in 50–60% of patients. Computed tomography (CT; an imaging technique that uses x rays to produce two-dimensional cross-sections on a viewing screen) or ultrasonography (an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sounds waves to visualize structures inside the body) may also be used to diagnosis intestinal obstruction.

Unless a patient presents with symptoms that indicate immediate surgery may be necessary (high fever, severe pain, a rapid heart beat, etc.), a course of IV fluids, NG decompression, and antibiotic therapy is usually prescribed in an effort to avoid surgery.