Phytobezoar-Induced Jejunal Obstruction in an Elderly Male With Multiple Comorbidities

Phytobezoars are rare causes of small bowel obstruction, most often affecting older adults with multiple comorbidities. Their diagnosis is frequently delayed because the presenting symptoms are vague and nonspecific. We report the case of an 84-year-old male with several chronic conditions who presented with persistent hiccups, vomiting, and reduced oral intake. Initial conservative management was undertaken; however, subsequent imaging, including CT scans and barium studies, demonstrated a complete blockage in the proximal jejunum. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a large intraluminal mass, which was successfully removed through transverse enterotomy. The patient required short-term vasopressor support after surgery and was discharged without complications on postoperative day 7. This case highlights that the early use of multimodal imaging and prompt surgical intervention is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective management, and uneventful postoperative recovery.

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Publication Details

Journal
Cureus
Published
2026-03-15
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.105285
Primary Topic
Intestinal and Peritoneal Adhesions
Type
article
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article

Phytobezoar-Induced Jejunal Obstruction in an Elderly Male With Multiple Comorbidities

Glenn L. Alexander, Rajesh Nambiar, Saima Nawab, Muhammad Ali Shah et al.
Cureus
Intestinal and Peritoneal Adhesions
article

Phytobezoar-Induced Jejunal Obstruction in an Elderly Male With Multiple Comorbidities

Glenn L. Alexander, Rajesh Nambiar, Saima Nawab, Muhammad Ali Shah, Ahmer A Longi
article en

Abstract

Phytobezoars are rare causes of small bowel obstruction, most often affecting older adults with multiple comorbidities. Their diagnosis is frequently delayed because the presenting symptoms are vague and nonspecific. We report the case of an 84-year-old male with several chronic conditions who presented with persistent hiccups, vomiting, and reduced oral intake. Initial conservative management was undertaken; however, subsequent imaging, including CT scans and barium studies, demonstrated a complete blockage in the proximal jejunum. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a large intraluminal mass, which was successfully removed through transverse enterotomy. The patient required short-term vasopressor support after surgery and was discharged without complications on postoperative day 7. This case highlights that the early use of multimodal imaging and prompt surgical intervention is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective management, and uneventful postoperative recovery.

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Intestinal and Peritoneal Adhesions
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