A blockage that prevents or slows the movement of contents through the small intestine; the most common cause is adhesions. What is this condition called?

• A. Intestinal Malabsorption
• B. Ileus
• C. Small bowel obstruction (SBO)
• D. Gastric outlet obstruction

Answer: (C)

This question is about identifying a mechanical blockage of the small intestine. The description—blockage that prevents or slows the movement of contents through the small intestine, with adhesions as the most common cause—fits a small bowel obstruction. Adhesions from prior surgery or inflammation can constrict or kink the small bowel, creating a physical barrier to passage.

Ileus, by contrast, is a functional slowdown of gut motility without a fixed blockage, so it isn’t defined by a physical obstruction. Gastric outlet obstruction occurs at the stomach’s outlet (pylorus), not in the small intestine. Intestinal malabsorption involves impaired absorption of nutrients, not a blockage. Therefore, the best answer is small bowel obstruction.