Small bowel obstruction in early pregnancy treated by jejunotomy and total parenteral nutrition.

BACKGROUND

Small bowel obstruction in early pregnancy increases maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality and might be diagnosed mistakenly as hyperemesis gravidrum. Prompt diagnosis and therapy is essential.

CASE

A 29-year-old primigravida was admitted at 13 weeks' gestation with small bowel obstruction. After jejunotomy, total parenteral nutrition was given until oral intake was resumed completely 1 month after surgery. She was discharged with no complications and the rest of her pregnancy and delivery were uneventful.

CONCLUSION

Small bowel obstruction in early pregnancy should be diagnosed expeditiously and can be treated with jejunotomy and total parenteral nutrition.