Preoperative Factors Dominate Surgery Choice for Small Bowel Obstruction

In small bowel obstruction cases, younger patients with fewer comorbidities are more likely to undergo laparoscopic surgery, which is linked to fewer complications and lower mortality compared to open surgery. Etiology plays a key role; adhesive obstructions favor laparoscopy while hernias prompt open procedures. Notable predictors of conversion from laparoscopic to open include abdominal malignancy and free fluid on CT scans. Optimal outcomes arise from preoperative assessments paired with adaptable intraoperative strategies.