Mechanical intestinal obstruction is an important diagnosis and a common cause of acute abdominal pain. Adhesions and scar tissue in the abdomen after previous surgery is a frequent source. Small bowel obstruction caused by adhesions can be treated conservatively, but surgery may be needed. Laparotomy is usually the approach for adhesiolysis, but laparoscopy is an option.
This case rapport describes a man in his 50s being admitted with severe abdominal pain and vomiting. Further investigation showed a small bowel obstruction caused by adhesions. After two days expectation, surgery became necessary. During laparoscopy, the surgeon’s finger was introduced intraabdominally and used to release the adhesion.
We here present a possible approach to a situation encountered during laparoscopic adhesiolysis and encourage creativity and laparoscopy in selected patients with mechanical small bowel obstruction.
Alternative title: "Digital assisted laparoscopy with adhesiolysis in mechanical intestinal obstruction"