8 Frequently Asked Questions about Ileus

6. How is ileus treated?

If it has been determined that you have ileus, you will be hospitalized. Based on your current situation, your doctor will determine whether to wait and monitor you closely, or whether to intervene with surgery. According to Bert Cagir, MD, FACS, Clinical Professor of Surgery at The Commonwealth Medical College, physiologic ileus after surgery usually resolves within 2-3 days.

• In children with intussusception, a barium or air enema is the first line of treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic.
• Partial obstruction may not require intervention. The patient may be given intravenous fluids (IV), as well as a low-fiber diet which is easier on the intestines.
• Complete obstruction is a medical emergency, and it may require surgery. The obstruction will be removed as well as any intestinal tissue which may be dead or damaged.
• If you are not strong enough for surgery, or if you have colon cancer, the doctor may opt to treat the complete obstruction with a self-expanding metal stent. The stent may be inserted into the colon via endoscope or mouth. It then forces the colon open so that the obstruction may clear.
• If you are suffering from paralytic ileus due to a medication, you may be given another medication to stimulate motility. If possible, you may be taken off the medication which caused the paralytic ileus.