Bowel obstruction is a blockage in the flow of food or liquid through the small intestine or large intestine (colon). Common causes of bowel obstruction include fibrous bands (adhesions) in the abdomen that form after surgery, inflammation of the intestine (Crohn's disease), complications of diverticulitis, hernias, and colon cancer.

Abdominal radiographs are commonly used as an imaging tool to look for signs of intestinal obstruction. Although this diagnosis cannot be excluded if the radiograph is normal, it is a first-line clinical indication because it is easy, quick, and common.