Bowel Obstruction

DHI Can Treat Bowel Blockages With Less Invasive Surgery Options

Bowel obstruction, sometimes called intestinal obstruction, requires immediate medical attention. The blockage may be in either the small or large intestines. Very often, the condition requires surgery, either immediately after diagnosis or as soon as the patient is well enough to tolerate a surgical procedure. The colorectal surgeons at the Digestive Health Institute are experienced in offering minimally invasive colorectal procedures. This approach allows patients to avoid having a large, open incision and leads to a faster recovery.

When the bowel becomes blocked, parts of the intestine can die. This can cause the intestine to tear, or perforate, and lead to an infection called peritonitis. Peritonitis is life-threatening and requires emergency care.

Intestinal Obstruction

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Other Forms of Bowel Blockage Treated at DHI

A blocked bowel can arise from other conditions that require special treatment:

  • Pseudo-obstruction is a condition in which a bowel is blocked for a non-mechanical reason. Often, problems with nerves in the intestines cause the pseudo-obstruction. The condition can be seen in patients with Parkinson disease, MS or even diabetes that has caused nerve damage. Depending on a patient’s situation, pseudo-obstruction is treated with medicine, colonoscopy, surgery or a combination of these treatments.
  • Intussusception is a condition that is usually only seen in children age 2 and younger. It happens when the blockage is caused by part of the intestine telescoping on itself. It can often be treated non-surgically with an enema.
  • Volvulus is a blockage caused by the intestine twisting on itself. Very often, this condition can be treated with an endoscopic procedure such as a colonoscopy. When the doctor passes the scope through the intestine, it usually untwists.

If you need care for a blocked intestine, call the Digestive Health Institute at Call813-615-7557 for an appointment with a colorectal surgeon.

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Surgical Consultations For Digestive Cancer Without the Wait

Appointments Within Seven Days for Patients with Cancer

At AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute, we know that after being diagnosed with cancer, patients want and often need to begin treatment quickly. So we make it a priority to offer appointments for cancer surgery consultations within five business days, and often earlier.

Patients who are newly diagnosed with cancer, or have just found out they have cancer again, qualify for this priority access. Our surgeons will make themselves available to see you right away, even for a second opinion. We want to help you start your treatment as soon as possible.

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Whether you’re experiencing new symptoms or want a second opinion on a diagnosis, our dedicated digestive health experts are here to help you find answers and a path forward. Request an appointment today to take charge of your health and get the personal support you need.