What is the Difference Between Ogilvie’s Syndrome and Paralytic Ileus?

Ogilvie's Syndrome and Paralytic Ileus are both conditions that involve the obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract, but they differ in their specific characteristics and etiologies.

Ogilvie's Syndrome:

• Also known as Acute Colonic Pseudo-Obstruction (ACPO)
• Affects the colon, specifically the cecum, and is characterized by the sudden and unexplained paralysis of the colon
• Occurs in the absence of any mechanical obstruction
• Most commonly affects older adults with multiple underlying health conditions
• Often develops after an illness, injury, or surgery
• Dilatation of the bowel is confined to the cecum and ascending colon

Paralytic Ileus:

• An acute type of intestinal pseudo-obstruction that typically affects both the small bowel and the colon
• Very common after abdominal surgery when the bowels are slow to start working again
• Usually resolves on its own in a few days
• Involves the small bowel and colon, whereas Ogilvie syndrome is limited to the colon

In summary, Ogilvie's Syndrome is a more complex and specific condition that affects the colon, usually in older adults with multiple underlying health conditions, while Paralytic Ileus is a more common and temporary condition that affects both the small bowel and the colon, often occurring after abdominal surgery.

Comparative Table: Ogilvie’s Syndrome vs Paralytic Ileus

Ogilvie's Syndrome, also known as 'paralytic ileus of the colon', is characterized by pseudo-obstruction of the large intestine in the absence of any mechanical obstruction and presents as a massively distended abdomen. It usually affects the colon, specifically the cecum, and is more complex than paralytic ileus. On the other hand, paralytic ileus is an acute type of intestinal pseudo-obstruction that typically affects both the small and large intestines. It is very common after abdominal surgery and usually resolves on its own in a few days.

Here is a table comparing the two conditions:

In summary, Ogilvie's Syndrome is a more complex condition that specifically affects the colon, while paralytic ileus is a less complex condition that affects both the small and large intestines. Ogilvie's Syndrome typically occurs after abdominal surgery, trauma, or illness and may require treatment, whereas paralytic ileus is a common postoperative complication that usually resolves on its own.