Computed tomography features associated with operative management for nonstrangulating small bowel obstruction.

Background: The management of nonstrangulating small bowel obstruction (SBO) may require surgery, but the need for and timing of surgical intervention isn't always apparent. We sought to determine whether specific features on computed tomography (CT) can predict the necessity for operative management.

Methods: Two radiologists independently reviewed CT scans from all patients admitted to hospital with SBO between 2004 and 2006.