Ileus

Ileus is a partial or complete non-mechanical blockage of the small and/or large intestine. It causes colic, vomiting, and constipation.

Ileus occurs because peristalsis stops. Causes of ileus include:

• peritonitis
• disruption or reduction of the blood supply to the abdomen e.g. post-operatively
• kidney diseases, especially when potassium levels are decreased
• gallstone ileus - obstruction of the large intestine by a gallstone that has blocked the intestinal opening.

References:

• http://www.answers.com/topic/ileus
• http://www.answers.com/gallstone%20ileus