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Table 28-4

Causes of Ileus

Postoperative
Intraperitoneal or retroperitoneal pathology:
  • Inflammation, infection

  • Hemorrhage

  • Intestinal ischemia

  • Bowel wall edema (may be due to massive fluid resuscitation)

  • Ascites

Systemic sepsis
Trauma
Uremia
Sympathetic hyperactivity
Electrolyte derangements
Drugs:
  • Catecholamines

  • Calcium channel blockers

  • Narcotics

  • Anticholinergics

  • Phenothiazines

  • β-blockers