Report of incomplete intestinal obstruction in an adult patient with Down Syndrome: A literature review

Abstract

We report a case of incomplete intestinal obstruction in a 29-year-old adult male with Down syndrome in The First Affiliated Hospital, Hebei Medical University from January 2023 to July 2023 the patient had been experiencing intermittent abdominal distension and reduced bowel movements and gas for a period of two years. Physical examination revealed tenderness in the left lower abdomen. Abdominal CT and gastrointestinal imaging showed intestinal and colonic distension, while colonoscopy did not show any abnormalities. During laparoscopic exploration, adhesions were observed between the greater omentum and the left lower abdominal wall, resulting in dilation of the proximal colon. After the adhesions were released, intestinal contents were able to pass through the distal segment, relieving the obstruction. The patient had no history of trauma or surgery. This case highlights a potential association between Down syndrome and congenital abdominal adhesions that can lead to intestinal obstruction. Due to the communication difficulties in patients with Down syndrome, there is a potential for misdiagnosis, emphasizing the importance of awareness. Laparoscopic examination not only aids in the diagnosis but also offers therapeutic benefits in such cases.