Untreated Ileus: Potential Consequences
When left untreated, ileus can have severe and life-threatening consequences. Here are some of the conditions that may arise:
- Necrosis: Untreated ileus can result in necrosis, a condition characterized by the permanent death of cells in living tissue. This occurs when the obstruction cuts off the blood supply to the intestine, leading to tissue damage.
- Bowel Perforation: In some cases, the obstruction in the intestine can cause a hole or tear, known as bowel perforation. When this happens, the contents of the intestine, including fecal matter that contains high levels of bacteria, can leak into the abdominal cavity.
- Peritonitis: Bowel perforation can lead to peritonitis, which is inflammation and infection in the abdominal cavity. This condition is caused by the presence of bacteria or fungus in the abdominal cavity, resulting from the leakage of intestinal contents.
- Sepsis: If left untreated, peritonitis can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Sepsis occurs when the infection spreads throughout the body, leading to systemic inflammation. It can result in organ failure, shock, and ultimately, death.
Understanding the Prognosis for Ileus
When it comes to the prognosis of ileus, the overall health of the patient plays a significant role. For instance, if a patient is diagnosed with colon cancer, their treatment approach might involve periodic use of a self-expanding metal stent rather than opting for surgery. The mortality rate for individuals who have a healthy overall health but did not survive ileus due to related complications is approximately 3.8 per 100,000 cases. However, it is important to note that seeking proper treatment can significantly increase the chances of making a full recovery, especially if the patient is otherwise healthy.