Ileus

A temporary disruption of intestinal peristalsis due to non-mechanical causes.

Obstruction of the intestines.

An intestinal obstruction resulting from paralysis of bowel motility caused by peritonitis q.v. or other inflammatory processes.

Of the intestine, usually distension caused by loss of muscular action in the bowel.

Disturbance in the coordinated contractions of intestinal muscle so that materials do not pass through to the lower bowel; causes include medications, pain, disturbances in electrolyte balance, and peritonitis.

Gross absence of contractions in the small intestine following trauma, surgery, or intestinal obstruction.

Intestinal obstruction, usually obstruction of the small intestine (ileum). Paralytic or adynamic ileus is functional obstruction of the ileum due to loss of intestinal movement (peristalsis), which may be caused by abdominal surgery, spinal injuries, deficiency of potassium in the blood (hypokalemia), or peritonitis. Treatment consists of intravenous administration of fluid and nutrients and removal of excess stomach and intestinal secretions by tube until peristalsis returns. If possible, the underlying condition is treated. Mechanical obstruction of the ileum may be caused by adhesions from prior abdominal surgery; a gallstone entering the bowel through a fistula or widened bile duct (gallstone ileus); thickened ‘meconium in newborn babies with cystic fibrosis {meconium ileus); or intestinal worms, usually the pinworm Enterobius vermicularis (verminous ileus).

Loss of bowel motility, occasionally resulting in intestinal obstruction. It is characterized by loss of the forward flow of intestinal contents, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, increasing abdominal distention, obstipation or constipation, vomiting, electrolyte disturbances, and dehydration.

The obstruction of the intestines occurs due to the lack of peristalsis, the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the intestinal muscles that propels food along the digestive tract.