Blind Loop Syndrome
Blind Loop Syndrome Causes
Blind loop syndrome may be triggered by a number of factors, including: as a consequence of undergoing recent gastric surgery such as gastric bypass surgery for obesity and Billroth II or Roux-en-Y procedures for ulcers; along with a range of medical conditions that may lead to bacterial growth, such as scheroderma and diabetes.
Blind Loop Syndrome Definition
Blind loop syndrome pertains to a condition wherein part of the small intestine is cut off or bypassed from the normal flow of food and digestive fluids. It is also alternatively known as stagnant loop syndrome or stasis syndrome.
Blind Loop Syndrome Diagnosis
Initial diagnostic tests to determine blind loop syndrome are abdominal x-rays or abdominal CT scans. Additional tests are often recommended to screen for potential bacterial growth. Other tests that may lead to diagnosis include: barium x-ray of the small intestine; hydrogen breath test; D-xylose breath test; bile acid breath test; quantitative fecal fat test; and small intestine aspirate and fluid culture.
Blind Loop Syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Blind loop syndrome particularly affects the functions of digestion and absorption. It typically presents with the following symptoms: appetite loss; intense abdominal pain; nausea; steatorrhea or foul-smelling fatty stools; sensation of bloating; sensation of fullness after eating; diarrhea; and unintended weight loss.
Blind Loop Syndrome Treatment
Treatment for blind loop syndrome commonly starts by first dealing with the underlying condition. For example, if resulting from gastric surgery, another surgery may be done to repair the postoperative blind loop. In most cases, however, the blind loop cannot be completely reversed. In such cases, treatment is focused on addressing nutritional deficiencies as well as dealing with bacterial overgrowth.