Predictive value of signs and symptoms for small bowel obstruction in patients with prior surgery.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of various signs and symptoms for small bowel obstruction (SBO) in patients with prior abdominal surgery.
Methods: This was a secondary analysis of a previously reported prospective study of ultrasonography for SBO. Patients with prior abdominal surgery were identified and presenting signs and symptoms were compared to the CT diagnosis of SBO.
Results: No signs or symptoms were predictive of SBO.
Conclusion: No constellation of signs and symptoms can be used to reliably exclude a SBO in patients with prior abdominal surgery.