Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the prevalence and etiological patterns of intestinal obstruction in Madina.
Methods: A retrospective review of medical records was conducted involving 273 patients who were diagnosed with intestinal obstruction and were treated at the general hospitals of Madina, including King Fahad General Hospital and Madina General Hospital, during 2 years between 30/7/2021 and 30/7/2023. Key variables analyzed included demographic data, clinical presentation, underlying etiology, diagnostic modalities, management approaches, and outcomes.
Results: The prevalence of intestinal obstruction was 0.013%, with the mean age group of 30-40 years. Females accounted for 60.4% of the cases. Adhesions were the most common cause, responsible for 35.2% of all cases. Both adhesions and hernias were more frequently observed in females, whereas diverticulitis, volvulus, and tumors were more common among males. In individuals under 30 years of age, adhesions and inflammatory
bowel disease were the predominant causes. In contrast, tumors and hernias were more prevalent in patients over 60 years of age.
Conclusion: This study highlighted the prevalence and various causes of intestinal obstruction in Madina, underscoring the need for effective diagnostic and treatment approaches.

Key words: Intestinal obstruction, prevalence, general hospitals, Madina, Saudi Arabia.