PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What are some other causes of colonic obstruction besides neoplasm?

1. Constipation and peptic ulcers

2. Diverticular disease, volvulus, adhesions

3. Gallstones and pancreatitis

4. Hernias and lacerations

The correct answer is: Diverticular disease, volvulus, adhesions

Colonic obstruction can occur due to various non-neoplastic causes, with diverticular disease, volvulus, and adhesions being prominent contributors. Diverticular disease can lead to obstruction when inflamed diverticula cause localized narrowing of the colon or when a segment of bowel is obstructed due to complications such as stricture or abscess formation. Volvulus refers to a twisting of the bowel, which can obstruct the passage of stool and lead to ischemia if not addressed promptly. Adhesions, which are bands of fibrous tissue formed after surgery or due to inflammatory processes, can create physical barriers in the gastrointestinal tract that impede normal bowel function. Understanding these causes is crucial for diagnosing and managing colonic obstructions, as treatment may vary significantly based on the underlying etiology. For instance, a volvulus may require surgical intervention to untwist the bowel, while adhesions could necessitate an operative approach to release the constricted segment. Other options do not accurately capture the leading non-neoplastic causes of colonic obstruction. For instance, constipation primarily leads to fecal impaction rather than a structural obstruction. Peptic ulcers are associated with the stomach and duodenum, not typically causing colonic obstructions. Gallstones and pancreatitis primarily involve