The differential diagnosis of intestinal obstruction.

It seems hopeless to urge a more precise definition of terms, yet this is needed. The word obstruction is commonly used to mean luminal blockage with active peristalsis; but some prefix the adjective mechanical, apparently using obstruction in a generic context. The word ileus is derived from the Greek eileos meaning a coil or a twist. Many use this to mean muscular paralysis. Yet our latest medical dictionaries prefix the words dynamic or mechanical to connote luminal blockage with muscular activity, and the words adynamic or reflex to indicate luminal patency with muscular paralysis. The proposed solution to the verbiage problem is the use of the term “interference with intestinal transport.” This may occur with the lumen open or closed, with or without muscular activity.