Small Bowel Obstruction in a Twin Pregnancy Due to Fibroid Degeneration

Abstract

Small bowel obstruction in pregnancy is unusual. It is a difficult diagnosis to make, as vomiting and abdominal distension are commonly associated with pregnancy, and x-rays are avoided if possible. We present a case of small bowel obstruction caused by uterine fibroid degeneration in a 37 year old with a twin pregnancy. Following a period of observation an x-ray was performed which prompted surgical exploration, relief of the obstruction and myomectomy. This case highlights that x-ray is essential if there is a clinical suspicion of small bowel obstruction in pregnancy as delay in diagnosis can be catastrophic. As childbearing is increasingly delayed into later life it is possible that pregnancy complicated by fibroids will be seen more frequently.