intestinal obstruction

intestinal obstruction Blockage of the intestine by infolding (intussusception), malformation, tumor, digestive problems, a foreign body, or inflammation. Symptoms of intestinal obstruction can include crampy abdominal pain, lack of ability to normally eliminate feces, and eventually shock. On examining the abdomen, the physician may feel a mass. Abdominal X-rays may suggest intestinal obstruction, but a barium enema may be needed to show the actual cause. Treatment depends on the cause of the obstruction. See also intussusception.