the key objective

KEY OBJECTIVES
•Differentiate between causes of abdominal distention and develop an effective management plan.
• Through efficient, focused, data gathering: o Differentiate clinically the etiology of abdominal distention. o Elicit information on pre-existing disorders that would predispose to the various causes for abdominal distention. • List and interpret the critical clinical and laboratory findings which are key in the processes of exclusion, differentiation, and diagnosis: o Select and interpret abdominal imaging and other appropriate investigations used in cases of abdominal distention. o Perform paracentesis when indicated and interpret the results. • Conduct an effective plan of management for a patient with abdominal distention: o Outline the short-term medical and surgical management of patients with bowel obstruction. o Contrast the immediate and long-term management of cirrhotic ascites vs. malignant ascites patients. o Select patients in need of specialized care.
-APPLIED SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS
1. Explain that normal intestinal motor function is controlled by the extrinsic nerve supply (brain and spinal cord), the enteric brain (plexi within wall of intestine), and local transmitters (amines and peptides) that excite smooth muscles. 2. Identify that cells of Cajal serve as pacemakers in the intestinal tract, coordinating the functions of intrinsic and extrinsic neurons.