Small Bowel Obstruction Surgery in Austin, Tx

Several disease processes can affect the small bowel (intestine). The most common being obstructions. Other small bowel diseases include tumors or masses, Adhesions ( from previous surgery), infections, abscesses, inflammatory bowel disease

Robotic-assisted small bowel surgery may involve removing or dividing scar tissue (adhesions), treating infection, removing a diseased or damaged portion of the intestine, or reconnecting healthy sections of the bowel, depending on the patient’s condition.

What is the Small Bowel?

The small bowel (intestine) is part of the digestive system. We have approximately 450-600cm(14-19 ft.) of small intestines. Its function is to absorb most ingested food by producing a digestive juice that mixes with bile to complete the breakdown of proteins, carbs, and fats. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from food into the bloodstream to be absorbed by the body. Having a proper function of the small intestine is essential for absorption of nutrients.

What happens if the small bowel does not function?

When the small bowel (intestine) does not function properly, many problems can occur. The small intestine can stop absorbing nutrients or it does not have enough water to carry out normal functions. The small intestine lacks enough energy to perform its functions. When the small intestine can’t work well or stops working it prevents the stomach’s ability to move food in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Symptoms of Small bowel Diseases

Most common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain/cramping

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Failure to have bowel movements

• Failure to pass gas

Small bowel obstructions are a serious condition and can require emergency surgery.

Reasons for Small Bowel Surgery

A need for surgical resection (small bowel surgery) may happen for several reasons, including:

• Bleeding, infection, or ulcers caused by inflammation of the small intestine from conditions such as Crohn’s disease

• A blocked intestine caused by scar tissue or congenital (from birth) flaws

• Small bowel ischemia (Bowel death due to lack of blood flow)

• Strangulated intestinal hernia (internal hernia, volvulus)

• Carcinoid tumor

• Meckel diverticulum (a pouch on the wall of the lower part of the intestine that is present at birth)

• Injuries to the small intestine such as a twist or tangling or perforation

• Noncancerous (benign) tumors

• Precancerous polyps

• Fistulas

Some of these conditions are very serious and can require emergency surgery. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms and especially if you have had previous abdominal surgery.

Small bowel surgery may involve removing an affected portion of the intestine and reconnecting the healthy sections. The amount of bowel removed and the potential effect on digestive function depend on the location and extent of disease, the procedure performed, and the individual patient. Your surgeon will discuss the expected effects of surgery with you before the procedure.

Robotic-Assisted Small Bowel Surgery at ATX

Robotic Surgery: Is it right for me?

Robotic-assisted surgery may be an option for certain small bowel procedures, but it is not appropriate for every patient or condition. The recommended surgical approach depends on factors such as your diagnosis, previous abdominal surgeries, overall health, and the complexity of the procedure. Your surgeon will evaluate your condition and discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for you.

Start your treatment plan for small bowel resection

Contact ATX Robotic Surgery to schedule a consultation and discuss your treatment options. Your surgeon can explain the recommended procedure, what to expect before and after surgery, potential risks, and the recovery process based on your individual condition.

Small Bowel Surgery FAQs

Pre-Consultation Information