MedTerms Medical Dictionary

Ileus: Obstruction of the intestine due to it being paralyzed. The paralysis does not need to be complete to cause ileus, but the intestine must be so inactive that it prohibits the passage of food and leads to blockage of the intestine. Ileus commonly follows some types of surgery. It can result also from certain drugs, injuries, and illnesses. Irrespective of the cause, ileus causes constipation and bloating. On listening to the abdomen with a stethoscope, no bowel sounds are heard (because the bowel is inactive). Also called paralytic ileus.

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