A patient post-surgery with abdominal distension and vomiting is likely experiencing?

The patient experiencing abdominal distension and vomiting after surgery is likely dealing with postoperative ileus. This condition is characterized by a temporary cessation of bowel activity following surgical procedures, especially those involving the abdomen.

After surgery, the gastrointestinal tract may take some time to resume its normal function due to several factors, including the effects of anesthetics, surgical manipulation, and the body's response to trauma. Abdominal distension occurs because the intestines are not moving gas and fluids effectively, leading to a buildup. Vomiting can result from the inability of the digestive system to process contents properly, causing a backup of materials.

While constipation could also lead to some of these symptoms, it is more typically a longer-term condition, whereas postoperative ileus is an acute response to surgery. Intestinal obstruction might present with similar symptoms, but it usually has a more sudden onset and is often associated with significant pain. Gastroenteritis involves inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and is typically associated with diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping, which are not highlighted in this scenario.

The combination of abdominal distension and vomiting, particularly in the context of recent surgery, strongly suggests postoperative ileus as the likely diagnosis.