Source: In: Kelly, K.A.; Sarr, M.G.; Hinder, R.A., eds. Mayo Clinic Gastrointestinal Surgery. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Science. 2004. p. 421-439. In this topic "Digestive Diseases", with the title "Small Bowel Obstruction," the following abstract states that the authors note that postoperative adhesions, neoplasm, and hernias remain the most common causes of SBO (small bowel obstruction) through the past several DECADES! Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is one of the most common clinical problems faced by the abdominal surgeon, however the specific cause usually is unknown at the time of initial diagnosis. This chapter on small bowel obstruction is from a book that focuses on the major diseases treated by gastrointestinal surgeons, from the esophagus to the anal canal. The presentation has a definite clinical orientation and a major emphasis on practical applications as they are applied at the Mayo Clinic. The authors of this chapter review history, definitions, etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and imaging, patient management, early postoperative small bowel obstruction, prevention of SBO, the role of laparoscopy, and anticipated surgical outcomes. The authors note that postoperative adhesions, neoplasm, and hernias remain the most common causes of SBO through the past several decades. Abdominal computed tomography (CAT scan) has become the diagnostic test of choice for patients with acute presentation and an uncertain diagnosis of SBO. Although the overall mortality rate associated with SBO has decreased dramatically throughout the past century, the risk of recurrence remains high. When one searches the alphabetical list of diseases and disorders provided online by the Mayo Clinic, however, the word 'adhesions' cannot be found. Search here: Adhesions Hernia is found, so Mayo does acknowledge a hernia as a condition. For adhesions sufferers, however, the Mayo Clinic, widely known to be THE source when all others have failed, have slapped a hand of silence over the adhesion word. WHY?
