Study of intestinal obstruction due to tuberculosis: A prospective cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

Intestinal tuberculosis is a major cause of intestinal obstruction in developing countries where tuberculosis remains highly prevalent. Delayed diagnosis often results in complications such as strictures, adhesions, and perforation, increasing morbidity and the need for surgical intervention.

 Objective:

To assess the clinical presentation, diagnostic characteristics, treatment approaches, and outcomes of patients with intestinal obstruction due to tuberculosis.

 Methods:

This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of six months from January 2025 to June 2025 in the Department of General Surgery at Patna Medical College and Hospital, Bihar, India. A total of 110 patients diagnosed with intestinal obstruction due to tuberculosis were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Detailed clinical examination, laboratory investigations, radiological imaging, and histopathological evaluation were performed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

 Results:

The majority of patients were in the 20–40-year age group (45.5%). Abdominal pain was the most common presenting symptom (90%), followed by vomiting (70%), abdominal distension (65%), and constipation (60%). Radiological findings suggestive of intestinal tuberculosis were observed in a significant proportion of cases, while histopathological confirmation was obtained in surgically managed patients. Surgical intervention was required in 59% of patients, whereas 41% were managed conservatively. A statistically significant association was observed between disease severity and surgical management (p=0.03).

 Conclusion:

Intestinal tuberculosis remains a significant cause of intestinal obstruction and frequently presents at an advanced stage requiring surgical management. Early diagnosis and timely initiation of anti-tubercular therapy are essential to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.

 Recommendation:

Increased clinical suspicion and early diagnostic evaluation should be encouraged in patients presenting with features of intestinal obstruction in tuberculosis-endemic regions.