An obstruction of the small intestines is called?

• A. Ileus
• B. Crohn disease
• C. Diverticulum
• D. Fecalith

Answer: (A)

An obstruction of the small intestine is described as ileus, which refers to a functional blockage caused by diminished or absent intestinal motility rather than a physical, fixed obstruction. This term captures the scenario where the bowel isn’t moving properly, leading to distension and accumulation of gas and fluid. It helps distinguish from mechanical obstructions, where a structural lesion (like a stricture or knot) is actually blocking the lumen.

Crohn disease is an inflammatory condition that can cause narrowing of the bowel over time but isn’t the general term for an obstruction. A diverticulum is an outpouching of the bowel wall, not an obstruction. A fecalith is a hardened mass of stool that can cause localized blockage in the colon or appendix area but again does not describe the overall motility problem that ileus represents.