Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: Small bowel obstruction (SBO) due to fallopian tube encirclement is an exceptionally rare gynaecological cause of intestinal obstruction, with fewer than 20 cases reported in the literature. Pre-operative diagnosis is rarely established, and the condition is typically identified intraoperatively.
Case Summary: We report a 59-year-old postmenopausal woman who presented with a one-day history of colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, distension, and absolute constipation. A plain abdominal radiograph demonstrated multiple air-fluid levels consistent with mechanical small bowel obstruction. Emergency exploratory laparotomy revealed bilateral fallopian tubes encircling the distal ileum with a collapsed distal segment. Adhesiolysis achieved complete relief of obstruction with an uneventful postoperative recovery.
Conclusion: Fallopian tube encirclement should be considered in women presenting with small bowel obstruction, particularly in those with no prior abdominal surgery or adhesive disease. A high index of suspicion, appropriate imaging, and timely surgical intervention are essential for optimal outcomes.
Keywords: Small bowel obstruction; fallopian tube; internal herniation; encirclement; intestinal obstruction; case report


An abdominal pelvic x-ray shows multiple air-fluid levels. She had an exploratory laparotomy. We found encircling right-to-left fallopian tubes around the ileum with a collapsed distal ileum. She had adhesiolysis with an uneventful recovery.
CONCLUSION
Intestinal obstruction due to fallopian tube encirclement is a rare but important differential diagnosis in women presenting with signs of bowel obstruction. A high index of suspicion, appropriate imaging, and timely surgical intervention are key to successful management.

Key words: Small bowel obstruction; fallopian tube; internal herniation; encirclement; intestinal obstruction;