Intestinal obstruction due to phytobezoars: An update

World J Clin Cases. 2015 Aug 16;3(8):721-6. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v3.i8.721.

Abstract

The term bezoar refers to an intraluminal mass in the gastrointestinal system caused by the accumulation of indigestible ingested materials, such as vegetables, fruits, and hair. Bezoars are responsible for 0.4%-4% of cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction. The clinical findings of bezoar-induced ileus do not differ from those of mechanical intestinal obstruction due to other causes. The appearance and localization of bezoars can be established with various imaging methods. Treatment of choice depends on the localization of the bezoar which makes the clinical findings.

Keywords: Ileus; Intestinal obstruction; Phytobezoar.

Publication types

  • Review