Large bowel obstruction is an emergency condition that normally requires early identification and prompt surgical intervention.
Etiology is age dependent.
Recognizing colonic obstruction is essential. Serosa will expand to only a variable but limited diameter before rupture and fecal soilage of the peritoneal cavity occurs. Colonic obstruction that occurs from the rotating or twisting of the cecum or sigmoid colon normally causes abrupt onset of symptoms. Sigmoid volvulus usually occurs in older individuals with history of straining at stool. As the colon twists on its mesentery, venous drainage and arterial inflow are compromised by a closed loop obstruction.