Food bolus intestinal obstruction in a Chinese population.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to review the authors' experience of the diagnosis and management of food bolus obstruction in a Chinese population.

METHODS

During the period 1990-96, 31 patients were treated for food bolus obstruction. The records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (58%) had a history of previous gastric surgery and 13 patients (42%) had an intact gastrointestinal tract. The most common site of impaction was the terminal ileum, and a synchronous site of food bolus obstruction was present in 16% of cases. A total of 91% of the food bolus retrieved was phytobezoar. In 15 cases, the food bolus was successfully milked into the caecum. Enterotomy for removal was necessary in 12 patients, and two underwent small-bowel resection for necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Food bolus obstruction affects not only those who have had previous gastric surgery, but also a significant proportion of those with an intact gastrointestinal tract.