DefinitionIntestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the bowel that results in the failure of the intestinal contents to pass through.Alternative NamesParalytic ileus; Intestinal volvulus; Bowel obstruction; Ileus; Pseudo-obstruction - intestinal; Colonic ileusCauses, incidence, and risk factorsObstruction of the bowel may due to:A mechanical cause, which simply means something is in the wayIleus, a condition in which the bowel doesn't work correctly but there is no structural problemParalytic ileus, also called pseudo-obstruction, is one of the major causes of intestinal obstruction in infants and children. Causes of paralytic ileus may include:Chemical, electrolyte, or mineral disturbances (such as decreased potassium levels)Complications of intra-abdominal surgeryDecrea