Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is a common and potentially life-threatening acute surgical condition. A minority of patients present with a clear indication for urgent surgical intervention, either on the basis of clinical or radiological assessment (clinical signs of peritonitis/sepsis; suspicion of bowel ischaemia; closed loop obstructions; irreducible herniae etc.). However, the optimal management of the remaining patients, the majority of whom present with SBO caused by abdominal adhesions, remains a topic of international debate with practice varying in different healthcare systems.

This multicentre, prospective, observational study aims to describe the current management of patients admitted with SBO in 6 acute hospitals (Bispebjerg, Herlev, Hillerød, Hvidovre, Køge, Slagelse) on the island of Sjælland, Denmark, which accounts for a 1/3 of the total Danish population.

This is a prospective, non-interventional observational study of the management and outcomes of patients admitted with SBO in Denmark.

Relevant clinicopathological demographics will be retrieved from consenting patients' medical records. An initial analysis will be performed once these patients have reached 90 days follow-up after the start of treatment. The long-term outcomes of treatment will be assessed with further analyses at 1, 3 and 5 years follow-up.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years old
• Radiological or clinical diagnosis of mechanical SBO
• Admitted to one of the 6 participating centres

Exclusion Criteria:

• SBO presenting within 30 days of a previous abdominal operation

Patients admitted to participating centres on the island of Sjaelland, Denmark