Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

What is a life-threatening obstruction where the intestinal lumen is obstructed both proximally and distally?

1. Hernia

2. Volvulus

3. Intussusception

4. Adhesion

The correct answer is: Volvulus

Volvulus is a condition that leads to a life-threatening obstruction in which a segment of the intestine twists around itself and the mesentery, obstructing the intestinal lumen both proximally and distally. This twisting can cut off the blood supply to the affected segment, leading to ischemia and potentially necrosis of the bowel if not promptly addressed. In this scenario, the obstruction caused by volvulus prevents the passage of intestinal contents both upstream and downstream, which is critical for understanding the severity of the condition. Prompt identification and treatment, often requiring surgical intervention, are essential to prevent serious complications such as perforation or sepsis. Volvulus can occur in various parts of the gastrointestinal tract but is notably common in the sigmoid colon and the midgut. Other conditions mentioned, while they can lead to obstructions, do not typically create the same dual proximal and distal blockage. A hernia involves an area of tissue protruding through an opening but does not guarantee obstruction above and below the herniated area. Intussusception involves the telescoping of a segment of the intestine into itself, which does not create a dual obstruction in the same way as volvulus. Adhesions can cause obstructions but usually lead to narrowings or restrictive areas