Introduction.

Intestinal obstruction is a pathology of high prevalence. Its diagnostic and therapeutic approach has evolved according to the progress in knowledge and implementation of technology. The impact of its complications makes it necessary to make the efforts to achieve higher effectiveness. A reflexive approach to the problem is made by identifying the controversial points of interest for the general surgeon.

Methods.

A systematic literature search was carried out in several databases, using two search equations from the review performed in the thesaurus “Medical Subject Heading” (MeSH) and “Descriptors in Health Sciences” (DeCS).

Results.

A total of 43 articles were collected using the selected methods and the review text was constructed from them. The early identification of possible candidates for surgery, by means of a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm, is a priority in the management of these patients. Likewise, considerations are made in decision-making regarding the laparoscopic vs. traditional approach, as well as operative technical recommendations based on experience and what has been reported in the literature. There are factors specific to the surgeon, the context and the patient that influence the resolution of the problem.

Conclusion.

Intestinal obstruction and its clinical implications require a constant reevaluation of the state of the art and advances in management, tending to search for opportunities to favorably impact its clinical course. There are strategies to be implemented, including laparoscopic management in selected cases.

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