Ward Round--paediatric bowel obstruction: a surprising and rare cause of a common problem.

On physical examination, he was found to be normothermic, mildly tachycardic at 120 beats per minute, and normotensive. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation were within normal limits. He appeared well nourished, appropriately developed both physically and mentally. Chest examination was unremarkable. On abdominal examination, he had significant distension with visible peristaltic waves, tympanic to percussion, and diffuse abdominal tenderness without guarding or rebound. There appeared to be a mass in the left mid-abdomen. On digital rectal examination he had nonbloody stool with normal rectal tone. Enemas failed to relieve his symptoms. He was given intravenous fluids and antibiotics, and a nasogastric tube was inserted.