A failure, usually temporary, of the normal contractility of the muscles of the intestine. Paralytic ileus commonly follows abdominal surgery and may also be induced by severe abdominal injury, peritonitis, internal bleeding, acute pancreatitis, or interference with the blood or nerve supply to the intestine. Symptoms include a swollen abdomen, vomiting, and failure to pass faeces. The condition is treated by resting the intestine. A tube passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach or intestine removes accumulated fluids and keeps the stomach empty. Body fluid levels are maintained by intravenous infusion (drip).
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