Ileus | |
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Gangrene of the bowel causing gangrenous ileus | |
Pronunciation | |
Specialty | Gastroenterology, general surgery |
Ileus is a disruption of the normal propulsive ability of the intestine. It can be caused by lack of peristalsis or by mechanical obstruction.[1] The word 'ileus' derives from Ancient Greek εἰλεός (eileós) 'intestinal obstruction'. The term 'subileus' refers to a partial obstruction.[2]