title: CT diagnosis of closed loop obstruction.
abstract: A case of closed loop obstruction presenting with unremarkable plain abdominal films and diagnosed by CT is reported. The presence of (a) fluid filled distended small bowel loops; (b) abrupt transition with collapsed distal intestinal loops; and (c) grossly distended fluid filled "U" shaped loop are diagnostic of this entity. Prompt CT recognition, before signs of intestinal gangrene develop, will lead to immediate surgical decompression and a significant decrease in the morbidity and mortality of this potential abdominal catastrophe.
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed