Performed by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Intestinal obstruction surgery is performed to remove or relieve a blockage in the small or large intestine that prevents food, fluids, and gas from passing through normally. The procedure may involve removing the blocked section, repairing the obstruction, or creating a bypass. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates each case individually to determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on the location and cause of the blockage.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
General anaesthesia is given so you are asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure.
An incision is made in the abdomen, either a single larger cut for open surgery or several small cuts for laparoscopic surgery, depending on the urgency and nature of the obstruction.
The surgeon examines the intestines to identify the exact location and cause of the obstruction, checking for adhesions, hernias, twisting, tumours, or damaged bowel segments.
The blockage is addressed by removing adhesions, repairing hernias, untwisting the bowel, removing damaged or diseased sections, or bypassing the blocked area if removal is not possible.
The bowel ends are rejoined if a section was removed, the abdomen is inspected, and the incisions are closed with stitches or staples. A drainage tube may be placed temporarily.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy reviews imaging studies and clinical findings to plan the safest approach, discussing the procedure, expected outcomes, and potential complications with you.
The approach is chosen based on the cause and location of obstruction, using minimally invasive methods when safe and appropriate, or open surgery when better access is needed.
During surgery, the entire affected bowel segment is examined to ensure all problem areas are addressed and healthy tissue is preserved wherever possible.
Close monitoring follows surgery to watch for returning bowel function, manage pain, prevent complications, and guide the gradual return to eating and normal activity.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
You will be monitored closely with intravenous fluids, pain relief, and a tube through your nose or mouth to rest the bowel. Activity begins with gentle walking as soon as safe. Bowel sounds and function are watched carefully before food is reintroduced.
You will gradually increase activity while avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Diet is advanced slowly from liquids to soft foods to regular meals as tolerated. Incision care and wound monitoring are important during this time.
Most people return to regular activities within four to six weeks, though individual recovery varies. Follow-up appointments monitor healing and bowel function. Some dietary modifications may continue long-term depending on the underlying condition.
The surgery aims to restore normal bowel function, relieving pain, vomiting, and inability to pass stool or gas. The extent of symptom relief depends on the underlying cause and overall bowel health.
The procedure addresses life-threatening risks like bowel perforation or tissue death from lost blood supply. However, it does not prevent new adhesions or recurrence of the condition that caused the original obstruction.
While the immediate blockage is resolved, underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or tendency to form adhesions may require continued treatment and monitoring.
Some people experience changes in bowel habits or dietary tolerances after surgery, particularly if a significant length of intestine was removed or a stoma was created.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
For partial obstructions or those caused by adhesions, a tube through the nose to the stomach may relieve pressure while the bowel rests. This approach is tried when the blockage may resolve without surgery, though it requires close monitoring.
For certain blockages in the colon caused by tumours or strictures, a stent may be placed through a scope to open the narrowed area temporarily or as a bridge to planned surgery. Suitability depends on the location and nature of the obstruction.
When obstruction is caused by inflammatory bowel disease flare-ups or other medical conditions, medications and bowel rest may sometimes avoid the need for surgery. This is considered when the obstruction is partial and the bowel remains healthy.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about intestinal obstruction surgery.
Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.
