A new method for differentiating simple intra-abdominal from strangulated small-intestinal obstruction.

We developed a model that aids in the differentiation of simple from strangulated intra-abdominal small-intestinal obstruction and reached an accuracy rate of 97 percent in predicting strangulated obstruction. Fifty-three criteria were analyzed from the records of 229 patients and by the Bayes statistical mode; five statistically significant criteria were identified. Using these, and another 16 criteria that indicated trends, we were able to predict strangulated obstruction with a 97 percent accuracy. Neither laboratory tests nor abdominal roentgenography aided in the diagnosis.