Management of large bowel obstruction: Endoluminal options

Mechanical obstruction of the large intestine can result from benign processes, malignancy, or postoperative anastomotic complications. When faced with a colorectal obstruction, the surgeon first gathers information about the cause, the location, the degree of narrowing, and the length of stricture. Next, individual patient circumstances and comorbidities are considered to best formulate the goal of treatment. Finally, a treatment option is planned that will best suit the particular patient's situation and needs. This review focuses on nonsurgical endoluminal options for the relief of mechanical large bowel obstruction.